A letter written by a patent owner to an accused infringer. The letter directs the accused infringer to stop making, using, selling, or offering to sell the patented invention. The letter may include an offer of a license under the patent. However, the patent owner is under no affirmative obligation to offer a license. Strategies on cease and desist letters.
Caution: Sending a cease and desist letter entitles the recipient of the letter (the accused infringer) to file suit in its local federal court to determine whether or not an infringement has occurred. See Declaratory Judgment lawsuit.