How are “special” applications handled during the appeal process?

Applications that have been designated as “special” receive expedited treatment throughout the entire prosecution process, including appeals. MPEP 1203 states, “If the applicant remains diligent, an application for patent that once has been made special and advanced out of turn by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (Office) for examination will continue to be special throughout its entire course of prosecution in the Office, including appeal, if any, to the Board.” For more information on special applications, refer to MPEP § 708.01.

To learn more:

• Special Applications
• Expedited Examination
• Patent Appeals
• Administrative Handling