Definition
Contributory infringement occurs when a party supplies a component especially made for use in a patented invention, knowing it has no substantial non-infringing use.
Why It Matters Legally
Contributory infringement extends liability to suppliers of specialized parts, even if they do not make the complete product. It is an important tool when the direct infringers are numerous or hard to sue.
Example Use Case
A supplier sells a part that works only in a patented machine and has no other use, exposing it to contributory infringement liability.
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Related Terms
Induced Infringement, Direct Infringement, Patent Infringement, Patent Litigation, Damages