Glossary

Trademark

A word, phrase, symbol or design that identifies the source of goods or services.

Patent attorney

A lawyer admitted to a state bar who has also passed the patent bar and is registered with the USPTO.

Patent agent

A non-lawyer registered by the USPTO to prepare and prosecute patent applications.

Copyright

Protection for original works of authorship, such as writing, music, art and software code.

Office action

An examiner's written decision on an application, to which the applicant replies.

USPTO

The United States Patent and Trademark Office.