eldudereno

Can an employee who leaves a company apply for a patent on a product that has already been in manufacture with that company for 5/6 years? This product was designed by this person whilst working at this company which doesn't have or intend applying for a patent itself.

Thanks all

GU5

Don't think so, most companies have a clause in the contract about inventions (even made in your own time) becoming theirs.

Dracoro

You have to prove that he invented it whist at the company. Regardless, you say the company doesn't intend to apply for a patent so why not just leave him to it?

eldudereno

If this former employee can get a patent will he be able to stop his former company from manufacturing this product?

thanks