In intellectual property law, a notification generally refers to a formal document issued by an IP Office such as the European Patent Office (EPO) or the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in the course of administrative proceedings relating to the examination of industrial property rights. It is used to communicate important information concerning a patent, trademark, design, or other industrial property right application.
These notifications can be of various types:
- a decision to accept or reject a patent, design or trademark application
- a notice of publication of a patent application or registration of a design or trademark
- an invitation to correct errors or complete an application
- information on deadlines for responding to certain administrative or legal procedures, such as responding to an opposition filed by a third party
- information concerning the maintenance or renewal of intellectual property rights, such as patents, utility models, designs or trademarks.
In most cases, where appropriate, the Office will give the applicant a time limit to respond. This time limit, typically ranging from two to six months, varies depending on the nature of the notification and the applicable jurisdiction.
In summary, notification is the official means of communication by which the IP Office informs the holder of a right or their representative of any action taken on the status of the proceedings and of any decisions made in this regard.