How do patent examiners handle Printer Rush cases?

Patent examiners handle Printer Rush cases with high priority. According to MPEP 1309.02:

“These applications are placed on the examiner’s ‘expedited’ tab in Docket Application Viewer (DAV) and should be taken up for immediate action.”

The process typically involves:

  • Reviewing the “RUSH” document in the Image File Wrapper (IFW)
  • Annotating the “RUSH” document to indicate the action taken or why no action is needed
  • If necessary, mailing an Office Action (e.g., examiner’s amendment, Corrected Notice of Allowance, or Response to Rule 312 Communication)
  • If no mailing is required, creating a “Printer Rush – No mailing” action and importing the annotated “RUSH” document

The goal is to resolve any issues quickly to allow the patent to proceed to publication.

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Tags: Examiner Actions, office actions, patent examination, Printer Rush