THE REFORM OF THE U.S.A PATENT SYSTEM: THE LEAHY SMITH AMERICAN INVENTS ACT

Abstract

This Research initially emphasizes upon the role of International Organizations like World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and their contribution towards the protection of Intellectual Property. This research draws upon the recent reform of the U.S.A Patent Law from a system, which was said to be primitive and feeble by many to a formidable and one of the most sought after patent systems across the globe. This transformation has come through the enactment of Leahy Smith American Invents Act 2011, which was passed by the 112th congress receiving the assent of President Barack Obama on September 16, 2011. This paper emphasizes upon the changes bought by the abovementioned act and how it has helped in the protection of Intellectual Property in the U.S.A. A comparative study of the U.S.A. Patent Law and European Patent law, two of the most influential patent laws across the globe has also been done. I have chosen the European Patent law particularly for a comparative study with the U.S.A. Patent Law as it renders an centralized process for allocating patents as well as a Centralized process for opposition, limitation and revocation.