Utility Patent vs. Design Patent: Does It Matter?

Depending upon your invention, your situation, and your objective, the type of patent you choose to pursue can be an important decision. Each type of patent application has different strengths and weaknesses that can make a difference in maximizing the value of your intellectual property protection.

Court Upholds Gatorade’s “Sports Fuel” Slogan As Fair Use

In a unanimous ruling, the Seventh Circuit held last week that the slogan “Gatorade the Sports Fuel Company” should be considered fair use, and does not constitute trademark infringement. The ruling dealt a blow to SportFuel, Inc., a dietary supplements company which sells its own branded sports drinks under the registered SPORTFUEL trademark.

Congress Takes Another Step Toward Copyright Small Claims Court

A bill in Congress that would create a special tribunal for small copyright disputes has cleared a key procedural hurdle on its way to enactment. The Copyright Alternative in Small-claims Enforcement Act, or “CASE” Act, made it out of the Senate Judiciary Committee last week and will soon head to the floor for a vote […]

The Importance of Patent Examiner Interviews

What is a USPTO examiner interview?A USPTO examiner interview is a useful tool during patent prosecution to clarify positions, resolve issues and provide a better understanding of the patent application. When done correctly, it can expedite patent prosecution and reduce costs.