Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: child application
Term: CAST A CLOUD ON
Definition: When someone casts a cloud on something, they create doubt about it. This is often used in the context of patents, where someone might cast a cloud on the validity of a patent, making people unsure if it is really valid or not.
Definition: To create doubt about a patent, especially its validity.
Example: The recent lawsuit has cast a cloud on the validity of the patent for the new technology.
Explanation: This means that the lawsuit has raised questions about whether the patent is actually valid or not. It suggests that there may be some uncertainty or doubt about the patent's legal status.
Example: The company's decision to sue their competitor has cast a cloud on the entire industry, as many are now questioning the validity of similar patents.
Explanation: In this case, the lawsuit has not only raised doubts about the specific patent in question, but has also created a broader sense of uncertainty about other patents in the same industry. This can have a ripple effect on innovation and competition within the field.