What is the process for correcting citation errors in applications ready for issue?
For patent applications that are otherwise ready for issue but contain citation errors, the USPTO has a specific process for correction. As stated in MPEP 707.05(g):
In any application otherwise ready for issue, in which the erroneous citation has not been formally corrected in an official paper, the examiner is directed to correct the citation by examiner’s amendment accompanying the Notice of Allowability form PTOL-37.
Key points about this process:
- It applies to applications ready for issue with uncorrected citation errors.
- The examiner takes the initiative to correct the error.
- Correction is made by examiner’s amendment.
- The correction accompanies the Notice of Allowability (form PTOL-37).
- This ensures that the final patent document contains accurate citations.
This procedure demonstrates the USPTO’s commitment to maintaining accuracy in patent documents, even at the final stages of the examination process.
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