Patent Trolling: Shining a Light Under the Bridge

20 Wake Forest J. Bus. & Intell. Prop. L. 1

While “patent trolls” is a catchy phrase, most people do not fully
understand what exactly a patent troll is or the complex issues that have
arisen because of patent trolls. This paper will shed light on these
issues. First, patent trolls and the issues associated with patent trolling
will be defined. Second, the true history of patent trolls and their
predecessors will be explored. Third, the impact that patent trolls have
had on patent law will be analyzed. And finally, solutions to the
complex issues which surround patent trolls will be proffered.