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Continuation-in-part application (CIP) CIP applications are composite applications based on an earlier application, but with the addition of new matter. The new matter receives the filing date of the new CIP application, while matter that was in the original application retains the filing date of the original application for priority related to references. CIP applications are often filed when an inventor makes improvements after the filing of the original application.

Contributory infringement This requires a separate direct infringer. The contributor to infringement facilitates the infringement by typically providing components for use in a combination that is patented. If the components have a substantial non-infringing commercial use, then there should be no contributory infringement.

Correspondence Correspondence will always be sent to the correspondence address which is either the applicant's address or that of the listed attorney or agent.

Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC) The CAFC was established in 1982 and is the court for all patent appeals from the U.S. District Courts.

Cover sheet That part of an application containing identifying information, such as the type of application, the name of inventor(s) and the attorney filing the application.