A Visual Guide to Build Claim Charts

What Is A Claim Chart?

A good claim chart is like a Swiss Army knife – simple, efficient, and effective. A claim chart compares the limitations of a patent claim against a product, against other patents, or against various publications. Claim limitations are placed in the first column of a table and evidence of use or evidence of publication are placed in a second column. Patent claim charts are commonly used in patent infringement litigation and are an essential tool for both patent attorneys and judges.

Patent claim charts can also be used to:

  • Identify potential infringements: Patent attorneys can use patent claim charts to identify potential infringements of their clients’ patents. This can help to prevent costly infringement lawsuits.
  • Negotiate settlements: Claim charts can help negotiate settlements in patent infringement cases. This can help to resolve disputes without going to court.
  • Educate judges: Claim charts can be used to educate judges about the technical aspects of a patent claim. This can help judges to make informed decisions about patent infringement cases.

Dilworth IP has created a visual guide that outlines best practices for creating claim charts capable of withstanding scrutiny in the boardroom and the courtroom. The infographic begins with basic principles applicable to most claim charts, then dives into advanced strategies that can lead to successful IP negotiations and litigations.

Refer to the visual guide for creating claim charts when faced with the following situations:

  • Determine essentiality of a standards-essential patent
  • Negotiate a patent license agreement
  • Invalidate a patent in an infringement defense
  • Assert a patent against an infringer

Use this link to view and download the infographic:

A Visual Guide to Build Claim Charts PDF


This article is for informational purposes, is not intended to constitute legal advice, and may be considered advertising under applicable state laws. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author only and are not necessarily shared by Dilworth IP, its other attorneys, agents, or staff, or its clients.