Most general counsel did not build their careers expecting to spend meaningful time on trademarks. They are rarely the reason a deal closes, a lawsuit settles or a quarter hits its numbers....more
2025 saw a significant statutory change and the long-awaited Supreme Court of Canada hearing of an appeal regarding the patentability of methods of medical treatment. The courts also considered due care in the context of...more
Every October, we’re reminded that the scariest things are often the ones you don’t see coming. For patent owners, that’s true year-round. Beneath the surface of even the most impressive-looking portfolios can lurk hidden...more
A recent decision from the Canadian Federal Court of Appeal (FCA) underscores the importance of implementing multi-layered patent docketing systems to prevent the loss of rights due to unpaid maintenance fees. ...more
The Trump administration is considering changing the U.S. patent maintenance fee structure from the existing three fixed flat fees to an annual, value‑based “tax” model where patent holders would pay 1%–5% of the estimated...more
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) will implement a new fee schedule this month, introducing significant changes across all fee categories, including initial trademark application filing fees....more
Most companies recognize patent portfolios as valuable business assets. They protect the investments made in research and development, and the efforts to bring products to market. As businesses evolve, and that cycle has only...more
Dear Patenticity, My start-up has a small portfolio of about a dozen patents covering our core technology. One of those patents has the 11.5 year maintenance fee coming due in the next six months, but this particular...more
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) allows for the revival of abandoned applications, acceptance of delayed maintenance fee payments, and acceptance of delayed priority or benefit claims by the filing of a...more