TTABVue system brings free access online to TTAB documents

The Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB) of the US Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) has unveiled TTABVue, a system that allows internet users to view images of documents filed at the TTAB in trademark opposition or cancellation disputes. The TTABVue service is free and covers all documents filed since January 2003 and many filings made between June 2001 and January 2003.

The TTAB set up the TTABVue system in accordance with its 21st Century Strategic Plan and in view of the expected problems with trademark registration extensions into the United States following the implementation of the Madrid Protocol (see US mark owners may now apply for international marks).

It is hoped that the new TTABVue system will work in conjunction with the Electronic System for Trademark Trials and Appeals, which was introduced late last year and allows parties to file certain case documents and requests for extensions of time by email.

When announcing the implementation of the TTABVue system, the Director of the PTO James Rogan stated: "As we continue to expand our electronic services, quality improves, and our processes are simpler, faster and more efficient, allowing us to be more responsive to the needs of our customers."

The PTO intends to continue expanding its e-government capacities and initiatives so that more customers can receive more services at less cost.

Brian E Banner, Banner & Witcoff Ltd, Washington DC