Lessons Learned from High-Profile Patent Appeals
Patent appeals can feel like distant courtroom dramas, especially when the names involved are Apple or Microsoft. But behind the headlines are valuable lessons for anyone trying to protect an invention. Whether you're just starting the patent process or thinking about defending your rights, you can learn a lot from how these...
How to Respond to a Missing Parts Notice from the USPTO
Getting a letter from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) can be stressful—especially if you’re not sure what it means. If you’ve received a Missing Parts Notice, don’t panic. This type of notice simply means that something was left out of your nonprovisional patent application. While it can delay your application...
How to File a Pre-Appeal Brief Request for Review
When the USPTO issues a final rejection on your patent application, you may feel like your only option is to file a full appeal. But there’s another path that’s faster and less expensive: a Pre-Appeal Brief Request for Review. This tool allows you to challenge a final rejection without going through...
The Importance of Patent Drawings in the Examination Process
When you file a patent application, your words matter—but your drawings can be just as important. Think of patent drawings as a visual blueprint—they show what your invention is and how it works. In many cases, they do what text alone can’t: clearly illustrate what something looks like, how it fits together,...
How to Use Expert Testimony to Strengthen Your Patent Appeal
You’ve received a final rejection from the USPTO. It’s frustrating—and often feels like a dead end. But there’s still a way forward. A well-prepared appeal, especially one supported by strong technical testimony, can turn things around.
Appeals give you a chance to clarify your invention, challenge how the examiner...
How to Appeal a Patent Decision in a Foreign Jurisdiction
Getting a patent application denied—especially in another country—can be frustrating. But a rejection isn’t the end of the road. Many foreign patent offices offer formal appeal processes that allow you to challenge the decision. With the right approach, you can often keep your application alive and protect your invention abroad. At Gearhart...
Formalities Chk Pass | Trademark Status Explained
If you’ve filed a trademark application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and noticed the status “Formalities Chk Pass,” you might be wondering what that means. In short, it’s a good sign. It means your application has passed the USPTO’s initial review of basic filing requirements.
What Is the Difference Between a Provisional and a Non-Provisional Patent Examination?
If you're thinking about protecting your invention, you’ve probably come across the terms “provisional” and “non-provisional” patent applications. At first glance, they sound similar—but they serve very different purposes. Deciding which one to file can affect your timeline, costs, and even your ability to enforce your patent rights later.

Should You Appeal a Patent Rejection or Amend Your Claims?
Getting a patent application rejected can feel discouraging, especially after all the time and effort you’ve put into your invention. But a rejection doesn’t mean the end of the road. You still have options, and knowing what to do next can make all the difference. In most cases, you’ll need to decide...

How Patent Examiners Determine Enablement and Written Description
When you apply for a patent, it’s not just about having a good idea. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) expects you to clearly describe what your invention is and how someone else could make and use it. That’s where two key requirements come into play: enablement and written description. If...