USPTO names new deputy commissioner

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has named John Love deputy commissioner for patent examination policy.

Love will be responsible for establishing examination and policy standards for documents and patent procedure. He will also help with technical matters for the International Patent Classification system.

Love was previously acting deputy commissioner after Jay Lucas left the position in October 2006.

“John Love is an important member of USPTO’s senior management team,” said Jon Dudas, undersecretary of commerce for intellectual property, in a statement. “With his many years of service and dedication to the patent system, I know he will make major contributions by providing the legal and practical guidance necessary to ensure high-quality, efficient patent examination.”

Love originally joined USPTO in 1969 and was director of the Technology Center, examining business method and computer invention patents. Colleagues praised Love's experience.

“John’s extensive patent practice and policy experience, wealth of legal knowledge and proven leadership abilities make him an invaluable asset to the patent team,” said Commissioner for Patents John Doll. “His rapport with the patent examining corps, managers and the public will help us expertly meet the many challenges of the coming years.”