Index
Leahy-Smith America Invents Act (AIA)
Summary
Major patent reform that transitioned the U.S. patent system from a 'first-to-invent' to a 'first-to-file' system.
Rights & Rules
- 01.The first person to file a patent application for an invention is generally the one who receives the patent.
- 02.Third parties have a window to challenge the validity of a patent after it is granted.
- 03.Small businesses may qualify for 'micro-entity' status, significantly reducing filing fees.
Penalties
- 01.Invalidation of patent claims if challenged successfully.
- 02.Loss of priority rights for failing to file in a timely manner.
- 03.Potential payment of opponent's legal fees in specific litigation contexts.
Verified Citations
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