Legal Definitions - file history

Definition: File history, also known as file wrapper or prosecution history, refers to the complete record of proceedings in the Patent and Trademark Office from the initial application to the issued patent or registered trademark. It includes all documentation, correspondence, and any other record of proceedings concerning that application.

Examples: When a person applies for a patent or trademark, the Patent and Trademark Office creates a file history for that application. This file history contains all the documents related to the application, such as the application itself, any amendments made to it, and any correspondence between the applicant and the Patent and Trademark Office. The file history is important because it provides a complete record of the application process and can be used to determine the scope of the patent or trademark.

Explanation: The examples illustrate how file history is created and used in the patent and trademark application process. The file history is a comprehensive record of all the proceedings related to the application, and it is used to determine the scope of the patent or trademark. It is important to keep a complete and accurate file history to ensure that the patent or trademark is properly granted and enforced.