Definition
An assignee is the party, often an employer or company, that holds ownership of a patent or application after the inventor assigns their rights.
Why It Matters Legally
Ownership determines who can enforce, license, or sell a patent. Clear assignment from inventors to the company is essential, since gaps in the chain of title can create serious problems in litigation.
Example Use Case
An employee inventor assigns her patent rights to her employer, making the company the assignee with full power to license the patent.
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Related Terms
Inventor, Assignment, Ownership, Licensing, Patent Portfolio