What is the significance of amendments under 37 CFR 1.312 in patent applications?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 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. Amendments under 37 CFR 1.312 are significant because they can trigger a Printer Rush in patent applications. These amendments are made after the Notice of Allowance has been issued but before the patent is granted. According to MPEP 1309.02 : “Issues which may prevent publication until they are resolved include but are not limited to: amendments under 37 CFR 1.312…” Such amendments require careful review by the examiner to ensure they don’t introduce new matter or affect the scope of the allowed claims. If accepted, they may necessitate changes to the patent before publication, which is why they trigger a Printer Rush for immediate attention. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Electronic Capture After Notice of Allowance MPEP 1309 Corrected Notice of Allowance When Additional Document Needed MPEP 1309.02 Printer Rush Cases Require Resolved Issues MPEP 1309.02 Permitted Rush Document for Patent Application Issues MPEP 1309.02 Requirement for Notice of Allowance After Sep 17, 2012 MPEP 2730 Requirement for Notice of Allowance After September 17, 2012 MPEP 2731 Rush Document Required After Patent Allowed MPEP 1309.02 Reopening Prosecution After Notice of Allowance MPEP 1308.03 Recommended Electronically Issued Patents Considered Printed Patents MPEP 1309 Patent Must Be Signed and Recorded MPEP 1309 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is a Corrected Notice of Allowance in patent examination? How does a Request for Correction of Inventorship affect the patent publication process? How do patent examiners handle Printer Rush cases? What role do Information Disclosure Statements (IDS) play in Printer Rush cases? What issues can trigger a Print...