A Paradigm Shift: Planning for and Coping with the Recent USPTO Rule Changes

On August 21, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) published its new claims and continuations rules, aimed at producing higher-quality issued patents. Additionally, changes have been proposed to so-called Markush filings that could aide the process of evaluating claims that contain more than one independent and distinct invention. What do these watershed changes mean for your patent portfolio and the patents that your company is currently developing?

Foley & Lardner LLP presented “A Paradigm Shift: Planning for and Coping with the Recent USPTO Rule Changes.” This complimentary seminar examined the practical implications of the new continuations and claims rules that will go into effect November 1, 2007, and the proposed Markush rules that are intended to streamline the examination process and promote innovation.

Foley Presenters

• Stephen P. Fox, Of Counsel, Electronics Practice


• Antoinette F. Konski, Partner, Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Practice


• Gerald F. Swiss, Partner and Vice Chair, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Practice


• Lorna L. Tanner, Associate, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Practice