Legal Definitions - application for a reissue patent

An application for a reissue patent is a request made by a patentee to change the scope of an already issued patent or to correct errors in the issued patent. The application must be filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and accompanied by a specification, drawings, filing fee, and an oath or declaration. The scope of the claims can only be broadened if the application is made within two years of the date on which the patent was issued.

Example: John has been granted a patent for a new type of bicycle. However, he realizes that the patent does not cover all the aspects of his invention. He can file an application for a reissue patent to broaden the scope of his claims and cover all the aspects of his invention.

Example: Mary has been granted a patent for a new type of phone. However, she realizes that there is a mistake in the patent, and the drawings do not match the description. She can file an application for a reissue patent to correct the mistake and ensure that the patent accurately reflects her invention.