First to file vs first to invent only matters if if there are two near-simultaneous independent patent applications on same subject by different parties. Paten

First to file vs first to invent only matters if if there are two near-simultaneous independent patent applications on same subject by different parties. Patents are not like registered marks where you can apply for the same thing over and over; only the original inventor or its employer can apply, otherwise lour patent would be invalidated due to prior art.