Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Allowable state: When a patent claim is in an acceptable form and contains subject matter that can be patented, it is said to be in an allowable state.
Simply put, if someone invents something new and unique, they can apply for a patent to protect their invention. However, not all inventions can be patented. If the invention meets certain criteria and is presented in a proper format, it is considered to be in an allowable state and can be granted a patent.
Definition: Allowable state refers to the condition of a patent claim that contains patentable subject matter in an acceptable form.
Example: A patent claim for a new type of smartphone that includes a unique feature, such as a foldable screen, would be in an allowable state if it meets all the requirements for patentability, such as novelty, non-obviousness, and usefulness.
Explanation: In this example, the patent claim for the new smartphone meets the criteria for patentability and is in an acceptable form, making it an allowable state. This means that the patent claim can be granted and the inventor can have exclusive rights to the invention for a certain period of time.