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 MoreHow 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 MoreWhat happens if an applicant fails to meet the requirements of accelerated examination?
What happens if an applicant fails to meet the requirements of accelerated examination? If an applicant fails to meet the requirements of the accelerated examination program, the application will lose its special status. According to MPEP 708.02(a), the following situations can result in the termination of special status: Failing to respond to an Office action…
Read MoreWhat are the consequences of failing to meet accelerated examination requirements?
Failing to meet the accelerated examination requirements can have significant consequences for your patent application. According to MPEP 708.02(a): ‘If the requirements for accelerated examination are not met or if the petition is denied, the application will be returned to the examiner for processing under normal examination procedures.’ This means: Your application will lose its…
Read MoreWhat are the conditions for withdrawal from accelerated examination?
What are the conditions for withdrawal from accelerated examination? An applicant can withdraw from the accelerated examination program at any time during the examination process. However, there are specific conditions and consequences to consider: The application will be removed from the accelerated examination program and placed on the examiner’s regular docket. The application will no…
Read MoreHow does the USPTO handle interviews in accelerated examination cases?
The USPTO has specific guidelines for handling interviews in accelerated examination cases. According to MPEP 708.02(a): ‘For accelerated examination applications, the examiner will conduct a personal interview with the applicant or applicant’s representative prior to final disposition of the application.’ Key points about interviews in accelerated examination: Interviews are mandatory before final disposition. They can…
Read MoreHow does the USPTO handle applications related to ‘recombinant DNA’ inventions?
How does the USPTO handle applications related to ‘recombinant DNA’ inventions? The USPTO gives special attention to patent applications involving recombinant DNA inventions. According to MPEP 708: “Applications relating to recombinant DNA have been accelerated by the Office under the Director’s Initiative.” This means that: Recombinant DNA applications are prioritized for examination They are processed…
Read MoreWhat are the criteria for patent applications involving HIV/AIDS or cancer to receive special status?
What are the criteria for patent applications involving HIV/AIDS or cancer to receive special status? Patent applications related to HIV/AIDS or cancer can receive special status under certain conditions. According to MPEP 708.01: Applications relating to HIV/AIDS and cancer, that have a notice of special status granted under the accelerated examination program, are treated as…
Read MoreWhat are the criteria for a patent application to be made special due to the applicant’s age?
What are the criteria for a patent application to be made special due to the applicant’s age? According to MPEP 708.01, an application may be made special based on the applicant’s age if: The applicant is 65 years of age or older, or The applicant is in poor health and fears they may not survive…
Read MoreWhat are the requirements for participating in the PPH program?
To participate in the Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) program, applicants must meet several requirements. According to MPEP 708.02(c), the main requirements include: Office of Earlier Examination (OEE) work product: The applicant must have a corresponding application with at least one allowable claim from an OEE. Claim correspondence: All claims in the U.S. application must sufficiently…
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