What is the “three-year pendency” rule for patent term adjustment?
The “three-year pendency” rule is a key provision in patent term adjustment, as outlined in 37 CFR 1.702(b). Under this rule: A patent is entitled to term adjustment if the USPTO fails to issue the patent within three years of the actual filing date Certain time periods are excluded from this three-year calculation, such as…
Read MoreCan third parties challenge or comment on patent term adjustment?
Third parties are not allowed to challenge or comment on patent term adjustment, as specified in 37 CFR 1.705(d). Key points include: No submission or petition on behalf of a third party concerning patent term adjustment will be considered by the USPTO Any such submission or petition will be returned to the third party or…
Read MoreHow can an applicant request reconsideration of the patent term adjustment?
An applicant can request reconsideration of the patent term adjustment as outlined in 37 CFR 1.705(b). The process includes: Filing an application for patent term adjustment within two months of the patent grant date Paying the required fee Providing a statement of facts specifying the correct adjustment and bases for it The MPEP states, “Any…
Read MoreWhat actions can reduce the period of patent term adjustment?
Several actions by the applicant can reduce the period of patent term adjustment, as outlined in 37 CFR 1.704. These include: Failing to reply to an Office action within three months Submitting a supplemental reply or other paper Filing an RCE after a notice of allowance Failing to file an appeal brief within three months…
Read MoreHow is the period of patent term adjustment calculated?
The period of patent term adjustment is calculated based on various factors outlined in 37 CFR 1.703. The calculation includes: Delays due to the USPTO failing to meet certain deadlines Delays beyond three years from the actual filing date Delays due to interferences, secrecy orders, and successful appeals The MPEP states, “37 CFR 1.703 specifies…
Read MoreHow does the submission of an Information Disclosure Statement (IDS) affect patent term adjustment?
The submission of an Information Disclosure Statement (IDS) can affect patent term adjustment as specified in 37 CFR 1.704(d). Key points include: An IDS submission may not be considered a failure to engage in reasonable efforts to conclude prosecution if certain conditions are met The IDS must be accompanied by a statement that each item…
Read MoreWhat are the grounds for patent term adjustment?
The grounds for patent term adjustment are specified in 37 CFR 1.702 and include: Delays due to the USPTO failing to take certain actions within specified timeframes Delays due to the USPTO failing to issue a patent within three years of the actual filing date Delays due to interferences, secrecy orders, and appeals As stated…
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