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Simple English definitions for legal terms
award in interference
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A quick definition of award in interference:
An award in interference is a decision made by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office that determines who was the first person to invent something. This decision is made after a contest between two or more parties who claim to have invented the same thing. The winner of the contest is given a priority award, which means they are recognized as the original inventor.
A more thorough explanation:
An award in interference is a final decision made by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office that determines which party in an interference contest is the first inventor. This decision is also known as a priority award.
For example, if two inventors file for a patent on the same invention, an interference contest may arise. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office will then determine which inventor was the first to invent the invention and award them the patent.
This award is important because it determines who has the legal right to the patent and can prevent others from using or selling the invention without permission.