USPTO show-cause orders for zero-term filings
The USPTO is mailing orders to show cause in pending applications that would issue with no patent term. What the notice says, and what it leaves open.
United States
United States intellectual property developments — United States Patent and Trademark Office practice, Federal Circuit decisions and federal legislation.
Ex parte Baurin: OTDP after Allergan
The USPTO's precedential Ex parte Baurin narrows the Allergan v MSN reading for continuations — and asks the Federal Circuit for clarification.
Settlement licences and US patent marking
The Federal Circuit's VDPP v Volkswagen decision puts licensee marking compliance in issue at the pleading stage. What US settlement agreements must now say.
US injunctions: no presumption of harm
A precedential CAFC ruling vacates a preliminary injunction over the presumption of irreparable harm and a claim term recast under § 112(f).
TEASi to Madrid e-Filing: what changes
The USPTO is moving outbound Madrid filings from TEASi to WIPO's Madrid e-Filing. What to change before 1 October, and what the notice leaves open.
US patents: mandatory US counsel from July 2026
From 20 July 2026 foreign-domiciled patent applicants and owners need a USPTO registered practitioner. What Swiss and EU filers must change first.
Tesla v InterDigital: UKSC on FRAND forum
The UK Supreme Court allowed Tesla's appeal and held Delaware is not an available forum. What that settles for pool licences — and what it does not.