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USPTO Transitions to eGrants
Electronic Issuance of All U.S. Utility, Design, Plant, and Reissue Patents
Effective April 18, 2023, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) will transition to electronic issuance of all U.S. utility, design, plant, and reissue patents. The “eGrant” will be the official copy of the granted patent. Certificates of Correction and Reexamination Certificates will not be electronically issued at this time. During a trial period of undetermined length, the USPTO will continue to issue the traditional ribbon copies of the patent, but when that trial period is over, all patents will be available only in electronic format unless a special ceremonial paper copy is ordered.
The true challenge for our clients is that the whole eGrant process will accelerate issuance of new patents, particularly after the Issue Notification is sent. For best practices, Cantor Colburn recommends that any continuing applications should be filed, at the latest, at or near the same time as the issue fee is paid in order to safely maintain copendency.
Resources
- USPTO press release: USPTO ushers in new era with introduction of electronic patent grants
- USPTO document: eGrants FAQ
- USPTO website: eGrants webpage
For Further Information and Assistance
Cantor Colburn has substantial experience representing clients in patent matters. Please do not hesitate to contact your Cantor Colburn attorney with any questions you may have regarding this matter and your intellectual property in general. For more information about eGrants, contact Todd Garabedian at tgarabedian@cantorcolburn.com.
Please note that each situation has its own unique circumstances and ramifications. This Client Alert is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice.
