What is a patent assignment?
A patent assignment is a legal document that transfers ownership of a patent from one person, or entity, to another. In North Carolina, such an assignment must be in writing and must convey the entire interest of the assignor in the patent. Generally, a patent assignment includes the following information: the name of the assignor and assignee, a description of the patent, and the date of the assignment, as well as any additional details about the patent. Additionally, the assignment must be signed by the assignor or someone authorized to act on their behalf. Once the patent assignment is completed and filed with the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), the assignee becomes the patent’s new owner. As patent owner, they are now responsible for filing all documents related to the patent, such as applications for continuation or reexamination. Additionally, the assignee is solely responsible for defending the patent in the event of a challenge or lawsuit. In some cases, the assignee may also be responsible for paying any fees, royalties, or other amounts that were owed to the assignor. It is important to make sure that all of the details of the assignment are clear within the document and that both parties are in agreement of the terms, including any fees and obligations.
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