Are CPAs available for all types of patent applications?

Question

Accepted Answer

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. No, CPAs are not available for all types of patent applications. According to MPEP ¶ 2.30 , CPAs are primarily used for design patent applications. The MPEP states: “If the request for a CPA in a utility or plant application is improper and the CPA has been treated as an RCE, do not use this form paragraph (use form paragraph 7.42.15 instead).” This indicates that CPAs are not typically used for utility or plant patent applications, and such requests may be treated as Requests for Continued Examination (RCE) instead. For more information on design patents, visit: design patents . For more information on plant patents, visit: plant patents . For more information on utility patents, visit: utility patents . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Patent Applications Cover Three Broad Types of Subject Matter MPEP 201 Permitted Design Patents Apply Invention Rules Except Otherwise Provided MPEP 201 Required Inventors May Obtain Patents for New Processes, Machines, Manufactures, or Compositions of Matter MPEP 201 Permitted Patent for Distinct Plant Varieties MPEP 201 Permitted Patent Rules for Plants MPEP 201 Required Requirement for New Ornamental Design MPEP 201 Permitted Specification and Drawings Required for Filing Date MPEP 201 Required Individuals Must Disclose Material Information for Patentability MPEP 2005 Requirement for Examiner to Obtain Reasonably Necessary Information MPEP 2005 Examiner Can Require Information Under 37 CFR 1.105 MPEP 2005 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is a continuation-in-part (CIP) application? How do continuation, divisional, and continuation-in-part applications differ? How does claiming benefit of an earlier filin...