What is the time limit for responding to a new ground of rejection in an examiner’s answer?

According to MPEP 1207.03(c), the appellant has two months from the date of the examiner’s answer to respond to a new ground of rejection. The MPEP states:

“The two month time period for reply is not extendable under 37 CFR 1.136(a), but is extendable under 37 CFR 1.136(b) for patent applications and 37 CFR 1.550(c) for ex parte reexamination proceedings.”

This means that while the standard extension of time provisions do not apply, limited extensions may be available under specific circumstances.

To learn more:

• time limit
• new ground of rejection
• examiner’s answer
• patent appeal