Definition
Induced infringement occurs when a party actively encourages, instructs, or causes another to infringe a patent, knowing of the patent and intending the infringing acts.
Why It Matters Legally
Induced infringement lets patent owners reach parties who profit from infringement without performing it directly, such as those who supply instructions for infringing use. Proving the required knowledge and intent is often the central dispute.
Example Use Case
A company sells a kit with instructions that, when followed, infringe a patented method, and is found liable for inducing infringement.
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Related Terms
Direct Infringement, Contributory Infringement, Patent Infringement, Patent Litigation, Willful Infringement