How are petitions to make patent applications special handled?

Petitions to make patent applications special under the accelerated examination program are generally decided in the Technology Centers. According to MPEP 1002.02(s), the following types of petitions to make special are decided in the Technology Centers: Petitions filed with payment of fee under 37 CFR 1.17(h) Petitions based on environmental quality under 37 CFR 1.102(c)(2)(i)…

Read More

What types of petitions to make patent applications special are decided in the Technology Centers?

The Technology Centers decide on several types of petitions to make patent applications special under the accelerated examination program. According to MPEP 1002.02(s), these include: Petitions filed with payment of fee under 37 CFR 1.17(h) Petitions related to enhancing environmental quality Petitions related to energy resource development or conservation Petitions related to countering terrorism Other…

Read More

Can I petition for special status if my invention doesn’t fall under the specified categories?

Yes, you can still petition for special status even if your invention doesn’t fall under the specific categories mentioned in MPEP 1002.02(s). The MPEP provides a catch-all category for such cases, stating: “petitions filed for reasons not otherwise provided for.” This means that if your reason for seeking special status doesn’t fit into the categories…

Read More

What is the process for petitioning special status for inventions contributing to energy resources?

The process for petitioning special status for inventions contributing to energy resources is outlined in MPEP 1002.02(s). According to the MPEP: “petitions filed with a statement that the invention will materially contribute to the development or conservation of energy resources ( 37 CFR 1.102(c)(2)(ii) and MPEP § 708.02, subsection IV)” To petition for special status:…

Read More

How can inventors petition for special status for inventions related to countering terrorism?

Inventors can petition for special status for inventions related to countering terrorism as described in MPEP 1002.02(s). The MPEP states: “petitions filed with a statement that the invention will materially contribute to countering terrorism ( 37 CFR 1.102(c)(2)(iii) and MPEP § 708.02, subsection V)” To petition for special status: Submit a petition along with your…

Read More

What is the Global/IP5 PPH pilot program?

The Global/IP5 PPH pilot program is an extension of the Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) program. According to MPEP 708.02(c), Under the Global/IP5 PPH pilot program, an application is eligible for accelerated examination with the USPTO if the application contains one or more claims that are patentable/allowable in one of the other Global/IP5 offices. This program…

Read More

How does the USPTO handle extensions of time in accelerated examination?

How does the USPTO handle extensions of time in accelerated examination? The USPTO has specific guidelines for handling extensions of time in accelerated examination: Extensions of time under 37 CFR 1.136(a) are not permitted in accelerated examination. Extensions of time under 37 CFR 1.136(b) may be authorized in limited circumstances. Any request for an extension…

Read More