Many patent lawyers, as well as a good number of the talented clients we represent, were disappointed by the America Invents Acts of 2011 (the “AIA”). One of the more commonly discussed provisions, implementation of the new First-to-File regime won’t take effect until March 16, 2013.

After much complaint, our representatives in Congress now seem interested in correcting some of the more glaring deficiencies of the AIA. One such bill was pleasingly entitled, a Bill “to correct and improve certain provisions of the Leahy-Smith America Invents Act and title 35, United States Code”.  It was passed by the House on 12/18/12 and by the Senate on 12/28/12. However, as the version passed by the Senate included some modifications, it will have to go back to the House for reconsideration before proceeding to the President for signature. Stay tuned…