What prior art documents should be included in an Information Disclosure Statement (IDS)?

Why is an IDS required?

The USPTO places an obligation on each patent applicant to disclose any known prior art references that are relevant to their patent application. A patent filer satisfies this duty to disclose prior art by filing an Information Disclosure Statement, or IDS.

Every patent applicant has a duty under U.S. patent law to disclose to the US Patent and Trademark Office any known prior art documents that are material to the invention claimed in the patent application. Since the duty applies only to known prior art references, the applicant does not have an obligation to search for prior art. However, any prior art references uncovered in a patent search must then be disclosed.

This duty falls on each inventor, the assignee (i.e., company or employer) if any, and the patent attorney/agent/firm assisting in the patent application.

What prior art documents should be identified in the IDS?

The types of prior art information that should be cited in an IDS include not only patent literature – such as U.S. and foreign patents and published patent applications – but also non-patent literature (NPL) such as printed publications including websites and online media, and all types of literature including sales and marketing materials. The duty to disclose extends not only to documents in the U.S., but also to any known foreign references.

What if more prior art is uncovered later?

The duty to disclose prior art is ongoing while the patent application is pending. Therefore, it is common for an applicant to file multiple Information Disclosure Statements through the course of prosecuting the application as new prior art references are uncovered. This is often the case when prior art is cited in a counterpart international (PCT) or foreign application. Of course, the obligation to file a further IDS would end when the patent application is abandoned or granted.

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Frenda Williams
Frenda Williams
2023-02-21
I have had the pleasure of working with Vic and his team at Innovation Capital Law Group on Trademark creation and contracts. As a solo and non-tech founder, the assistance, guidance and recommendations from Vic and his team have been INVALUABLE. And, with the knowledge that I have a Solid, well versed and caring legal team I can turn to, I have the confidence I need to navigate the intricacies of the tech industry as a solo founder. With that being said, If you’re a startup and you’re looking for a legal team that speaks your language, knows the industry and makes you feel like family…. Innovation Capital Law Group is a Perfect fit for you, your company and your team. Five out of Five Stars… don’t let their brilliance blind you 😁
Shiwei Liu
Shiwei Liu
2023-02-20
Excellent service and quick response. Lots of informative documents on its website.
Chang Chien Michael
Chang Chien Michael
2023-02-20
I have worked with iCap for more than 7 years. I am very glad with his professional knowledge that 7 utility patents were granted by USPTO. Vic and his team are very efficient and knowledgeable. Every time he can transcribe my design idea perfectly in two weeks and file it with no rejection from USPTO. The other service including the granted patent following up is always in time to remind me to take actions. That is why I still stick on iCap as my first priority when I want to file a US patent.
Mats Johansson
Mats Johansson
2023-02-20
We have been happy client for 10+ years. Awesome Patent Law Firm!
Hanson Chang
Hanson Chang
2023-02-16
Glad to write a review for Innovation Capital Law Group. We previously worked with a big law firm (2200 employees) on our patents, and decided to shift over to Innovation Capital. It was a great decision, this team got our patents done faster, more effectively, at a lower cost, and with broader claims. Win all around
Genevieve Springer
Genevieve Springer
2022-09-09
Clear, discernible tools and strategies couched within a business conceived from a genuine interest in doing right by founders.
InPlay Inc
InPlay Inc
2022-06-30
Vic and his team have been providing us with the best patent application experiences we could ever have in our entire career life! Their professionalism and technical knowledge have really saved us a lot of communication effort and time on the applications. Definitely highly recommend if anyone is looking for help with IP protection for their business.
Meg Crowley
Meg Crowley
2022-03-05
After working with Vic and his team at Innovation Capital Law Group, our organization is confident our trademarks were solid and protected. Thank you team.
Andy Dong
Andy Dong
2022-02-28
I have been using Innovation Capital Law Group for a few years and continue to use them. They have provided an excellent services on our legal issues including intellectual properties and patents . They are very responsive, easy to work with and very competent . I highly recommend them.

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