How does the Solicitor handle petitions for extension of time in court matters?

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.

The Solicitor is responsible for deciding petitions for extension of time in specific court matters related to patent cases. According to MPEP 1002.02(k)(3), these petitions pertain to:

“Petitions for extension of time in court matters 35 U.S.C. 142 , 145 , and 146 .”

These U.S. Code sections refer to:

• 35 U.S.C. 142: Notice of appeal to the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit
• 35 U.S.C. 145: Civil action to obtain patent
• 35 U.S.C. 146: Civil action in case of derivation proceeding

The Solicitor evaluates these petitions to determine if additional time should be granted in these court proceedings, balancing the needs of the parties involved with the efficient administration of justice in patent-related cases.