What is a Patentee? Exploring Legal Definitions and Implications

Q: Can a patentee transfer their rights?

Yes, a patentee can transfer their rights to another individual or entity, making them the new patentee.

Q: How long does a patent last?

In the United States, a patent typically lasts for 20 years from the filing date.

Definition & Meaning

The term "patentee" refers to an individual or entity that holds a patent, which is a legal right granted for an invention. This right allows the patentee to exclude others from making, using, selling, or distributing the patented invention without permission. According to federal law, specifically 35 USCS § 100, the term also encompasses successors in title, meaning that if the original patentee transfers their rights, the new holder of the patent is also considered a patentee.

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Legal Use & context

The term "patentee" is primarily used in intellectual property law, particularly in the context of patent law. It is relevant in various legal practices, including:

Patent applications and filings
Intellectual property disputes
Licensing agreements
Patent infringement cases

Individuals or businesses may need to manage patent-related forms or procedures, which can often be facilitated through resources like US Legal Forms, where users can find templates drafted by legal professionals.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A company develops a new type of solar panel and receives a patent for it. The company is now the patentee and has the exclusive rights to manufacture and sell that solar panel.

Example 2: A researcher invents a new drug and patents it. They later sell their patent to a pharmaceutical company. The company becomes the new patentee, inheriting all rights associated with the patent.

Relevant laws & statutes

Key statutes related to the term "patentee" include:

35 USCS § 100: Defines "patentee" and includes successors in title.
35 USCS § 154: Discusses the rights conferred by a patent.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition	Key Differences
Inventor	The person who creates or discovers an invention.	The inventor may not always be the patentee if they assign their rights to another party.
Licensee	A person or entity that has received permission to use a patented invention.	A licensee does not hold the patent rights but has permission from the patentee to use the invention.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a patentee or believe you may become one, consider the following steps:

Understand your rights and responsibilities as a patentee.
Keep detailed records of your patent and any agreements related to it.
Consult with a legal professional if you have questions about enforcement or licensing.
Explore US Legal Forms for templates related to patent agreements and licensing.

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Quick facts

Typical fees for patent applications can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars.
Patents are valid for 20 years from the filing date in the U.S.
Patentees can enforce their rights through legal action against infringers.