Actually, they would use outside counsel for something like this. In house counsel typically manages; they don't litigate.

Give me a free phone!!

I like free phones.

@ John Stracke--No US domestic GSM frequencies are supported by the chipset in this device. Also, if a CDMA signal is available, it stays on CDMA.

@ Darius--It's a frankenphone. The SIM card is for the GSM radio when overseas; it uses your same phone number. The Verizon version is sold locked to Vodaphone (but I'm betting some industrious person will figure out how to unlock it); Sprint's will be sold unlocked.

@ James--When I ordered, my receipt did show $39.99 for the global support pack, but then a discount of $39.99 for the same.

I'm not a Sprint customer, but I play one on TV.

Ummm...it doesn't work that way. Just because a patent holder wins against defendant A doesn't mean he'll win against defendant B.

Lots of times, patent applications are filed with what used to be termed "informal" drawings, and these were replaced with "formal" drawings, typically prepared by a professional draftsperson, after the application was allowed. Even though the PTO gave up on making a distinction several years ago--a drawing is either suitable for publication (e.g., it meets the regulatory requirements) or it isn't--many practitioners still act as if there's a difference. If you're rushing to get something on file, it isn't unusual to hand-sketch stuff and then amend by replacement later, once your draftsperson has had time to make pretty drawings.

As to the squiggle, I don't think that's in the regulation. I think it's just a case of "it's always been done that way."

True, they do cost money. But many would be willing to answer your preliminary questions gratis.

This is NOT a good place to post this kind of question, as you're more likely to get incorrect answers or ranting about our "broken patent system" from people who think they know what they are talking about than you are to get sound guidance. Most readers here don't know (or care about) the significant difference between a patent and a patent application, or the difference between a patent disclosure and patent claims. I recommend you contact a patent attorney to answer your questions.

Yes, but we should talk off-line. scott2001 AT cox DOT net.