Claim Construction And Interpretation - Part 3

Adapted from material written by Dale S. Lazar, a Partner at Piper Rudnick LLP 1775 Wiehle Avenue, Suite 400 Reston, Virginia 20190-5159 Phone: 703-773-4149 Facsimile: 703-773-5064 email: dslazar@piperrudnick.com In this third part, we explore that oddity of US claim practice - means-plus-function clauses, and how the CAFC says they must be interpreted. The clauses are easy and convenient to use, and many patent attorneys employ them in every mechanical or electrical application, and never have a second thought. They appear on their face to broadly cover an invention, but a close examination of recent CAFC cases shows that they are being interpreted extremely narrowly. Take this course and make your own decisions about when, and indeed if, you will ever use them again.

Approved Jurisdictions	Credit Hours	Credit Type
CA CO GA NY PA TX VA	1	Professional Practice