Priority Date
/ˈpraɪərəti deɪt/
Definitions
- (n.) The date that establishes the precedence of a patent application or other legal claim, determining priority over later filings or claims.
The inventor's priority date secured the earliest rights against subsequent applicants.
- (n.) In bankruptcy and debt repayment, the date that determines the order in which creditors’ claims are recognized and paid.
The creditor’s claim was honored based on the priority date established at filing.
Related terms
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Commentary
Commonly used in patent law and bankruptcy to establish precedence; clarity in specifying the priority date is crucial for rights enforcement.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.