What is the role of the Technology Center in handling status inquiries?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09

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.

Technology Centers (TCs) play a specific role in handling certain types of status inquiries. MPEP 203.08 states:

“Inquiries which cannot be answered by the UCC will be forwarded to the TC for response.”

This means that more complex or specific inquiries that require expertise in a particular technological area are directed to the appropriate TC. TCs have access to more detailed information about applications in their field and can provide more specific guidance within the limits of USPTO policy.

Topics: MPEP 200 - Types and Status of Application; Benefit and Priority Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Disclosure Individuals, Disclosure Timing, Materiality Standard, Prima Facie Case