37 CFR § 1.135 — Abandonment for failure to reply within time (MPEP Coverage Index) – BlueIron IP

37 CFR § 1.135 Abandonment for failure to reply within time

Source: Patent Rule (37 CFR)BlueIron Update:

This page consolidates MPEP guidance interpreting 37 CFR § 1.135, including 141 rules 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.

Summary

This section addresses the consequences of not replying to an Office action or paper requiring a signature within the specified timeframe, emphasizing secure communication methods and prohibiting email.

What this section covers

  • This section addresses the consequences of not replying to an Office action or paper requiring a signature within the specified timeframe.

Key obligations

  • A reply to an Office action or paper requiring a signature must be communicated in writing and not via email.
  • Written authorization for email communication is not sufficient to bypass the prohibition against using email.
  • Failure to comply with these requirements results in abandonment of the application.

Practice notes

  • Ensure all communications are in writing and follow the prescribed methods to avoid abandonment.
  • Be aware of the risks associated with using email for any response to an Office action or paper requiring a signature.

Related Provisions

Based on MPEP Last Modified: 10/30/2024 08:50:22