The File History (also known as a File Wrapper) is a dossier comprising of all the documentation relating to a specific patent application. This is an invaluable document for competitive intelligence both relating to preparation for infringement cases and for monitoring an applicant's activities regarding a specific technology.

The File History comprises the original filed application, associated priority documents, the patent examiner's report (and interview summaries), and correspondence between the patent examiner and the applicant. The file also contains records regarding associated fee payments, any amendments and considerations relating to the patent being granted. Anyone reading the file is also able to see how the drawings and claims have been modified or removed from the original filed application to the final set of drawings and claims that appear in the actual Patent Specification.

The file is available for public examination and may be copied within the Patent Office any time after a patent has been issued.

IP Innovation can obtain these legal documents from the relevant Patent Office. When you order a file history, a request is placed with the relevant patent office. As the File History is a legal record of a patent application the Patent Office will not allow the original file history to leave its facilities or control; copies are taken on-site under strict supervision in a specially provided area. It is not possible to offer a same day delivery of File Histories, because they are either stored in a warehouse or they may be in two other location; either with the patent examiner or in transit between the copy center, patent examiner or the warehouse.

After the file history has been copied, IP Innovation conducts a quality check; attaches index tab dividers, for ease of use, and additional ancillary information. The file can be delivered to the client, loose, bound or with punch holes and clipped. Prices and delivery times vary between Patent Offices.