An interference proceeding, also known as a priority contest, is an inter partes proceeding to determine the priority issues of multiple patent applications. It is a unique procedure in the patent law of the United States. Unlike in most other countries which have a first-to-file system, the first-to-invent system of the U.S. allow a party which has failed to file a patent application on time to challenge the inventorship of another party which has a granted or pending patent, if certain requirements are met.
Interference proceedings will no longer be available for applications filed on or after March 16, 2013, and will be replaced by "Derivation Proceedings."
Read more about Interference Proceeding: Definition, Parties, Presumptions, Leahy-Smith America Invents Act
Famous quotes containing the words interference and/or proceeding:
“Adolescent girls were fighting a mother’s interference because they wanted her to acknowledge their independence. Whatever resentment they had was not towards a mother’s excessive concern, or even excessive control, but towards her inability to see, and appreciate, their maturing identity.”
—Terri Apter (20th century)
“In proceeding to the dining-room, the gentleman gives one arm to the lady he escorts—it is unusual to offer both.”
—Lewis Carroll [Charles Lutwidge Dodgson] (1832–1898)