How are new patent applications assigned to examiners under the CPC system?

New patent applications are assigned to examiners using an automated routing system based on the CPC classifications. MPEP 909.01(a) states:

“New nonprovisional utility applications are assigned directly to individual examiners by an automated routing system that uses the CPC symbols on an application to determine the best available examiner to work on that individual application.”

The system considers factors such as the examiner’s portfolio, docket size, backlogs, and the application’s status as a continuation or divisional application.

To learn more:

• Patent Application Assignment
• Automated Routing
• CPC
• Examiner Assignment