What must happen before someone can legally use another individual's patent?

In order to legally use another individual's patent, obtaining ownership of that patent is essential. Patent law is designed to protect the rights of inventors, granting them exclusive rights to their inventions for a defined period of time. This exclusivity means that any unauthorized use of a patented invention can lead to legal consequences.

Therefore, to use someone else's patented invention legally, one must acquire the patent-holder's rights through proper legal channels, which typically involves either purchasing the patent or obtaining a license from the patent holder. Only with ownership or a legitimate license can an individual or entity use the patented invention without infringing on the patent rights.

Engaging in lawsuits, abandoning one's own patents, or paying fines do not provide the necessary legal claim to use another’s patent and do not contribute to the rightful acquisition of patent rights. Thus, the requirement to obtain ownership or a licensing agreement directly correlates with the ability to use the patented invention legally.