What are some common patent terms?

Patent law is a specialized area of law that gives inventors exclusive rights to their discoveries. Patents are typically issued by the country in which the invention is created, though they may also be filed with patent offices in other countries. Patent law in North Dakota is similar to other states and the federal government, with certain exceptions. The following are some common terms used in patent law: Patent Application: A document filed with a patent office that contains a description of an invention, usually along with drawings and other information that is used to explain it. The patent application serves as the basis for a patent. Patent Claim: A statement in a patent application that describes what the inventor considers to be the boundaries of the invention. The claims are the most important part of the patent application. Patent Infringement: The unauthorized use of a patented invention without the permission of the patent owner. It is illegal to make, use, sell, or import anything that is covered by a valid patent. Prior Art: Any information, such as a previous patent or publication, that is known to the public before the filing of a patent application. Prior art can be used to prove that the new invention is not new or it is obvious. Prior Invention: An invention that was created by someone else before the inventor made their invention. A prior invention can invalidate a patent by demonstrating that the invention is not “new” or “non-obvious.” Expiration Date: The date on which a patent will expire and the inventor will no longer have exclusive rights to the invention. After expiration, the invention may be used by anyone without the payment of a fee or royalty to the inventor.

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What are some common patent terms?

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