LAW 746LEC - Patent Law

This course provides an introduction to the theory and practice of patent law. For many companies, the patents they hold are one of their most valuable and important assets. As such, both general and intellectual property law litigators and corporate lawyers benefit from familiarity with patent law concepts to assist their client. In this course, students will debate policy issues pertaining to patents and explore the use of the patent law system in spurring innovation. They will learn about the standards for assessing whether an invention is patentable and will develop an understanding of how patents are prosecuted and litigated through the federal administrative process and the federal courts. Students will also discuss strategies for dealing with infringement actions and validity challenges. In addition, students will develop an understanding of the role that patent law plays in the greater context of intellectual property law from both a domestic and international perspective. No scientific background or previous experience in intellectual property or patent law is required or necessary. This course is complementary to 883LEC, Introduction to Patent Practice, which focuses in more detail on the practicalities of claim drafting and patent prosecution.

Credits: 3