Author Archives: John DiGiacomo

Under US patent law, an inventor is entitled to only one patent for an invention. Thus, the US Patent Office can reject a patent application based on double-patenting. Note also that double-patenting can be used as a defense to a claim of patent infringement. Essentially, the defendant can argue that the patent allegedly infringed is […]

.Sucks domain names are being used to criticize brands, raising trademark and legal questions. Revision Legal’s internet attorneys explain your options for protecting your brand from .sucks domains.

The TM symbol signals that you’re claiming trademark rights in a mark, even without federal registration. Here’s when to use it and what legal protection it offers.

A patent is a legal protection that is provided under US law that gives the owner an exclusive right to make, market and sell an invention. Generally, the term of the patent “monopoly” is twenty years (but that varies somewhat with the type of patent). Under current US patent laws, there are three types of […]

It is common for businesses — particularly startups — to try and incentivize their employees (and other agents like directors and third-party vendors) with stock options. Very broadly speaking, stock options can be divided into two categories — incentive stock options (“ISO”) and non-qualified stock options (“NSO”). By definition, an ISO is a stock option […]

Mask works are the protected designs for semiconductor chips under the Semiconductor Chip Protection Act. Here’s how this specialized IP protection works.

A trademark clearance search identifies potential conflicts before you file. Here’s how to conduct a proper search and what to do if you find conflicting marks.

One of the steps in the process of successfully obtaining a US patent is the patent applicant’s receipt of a Notice of Allowance. A Notice of Allowance is sent by the US Patent & Trademark Office (“USPTO”) to a patent applicant toward the end of the process. The document is sent after a USPTO patent […]

Over the past 20 years or so, the US Patent & Trademark Office (“USPTO”) has “gone digital” almost completely. That is, where allowed, most patent applications are now filed electronically via the USPTO’s Electronic Filing System-Web (“EFS-Web”). EFS-Web is an internet portal/website that allows for the submission of patent applications and supporting documents.The EFS-Web service […]

35 USC 102 sets out the novelty requirements for patent eligibility in the United States. Revision Legal’s attorneys explain the patentability conditions and how they apply to your invention.