How are “special” applications handled during the appeal process?
Applications that have been designated as “special” receive expedited treatment throughout the entire prosecution process, including appeals. MPEP 1203 states, “If the applicant remains diligent, an application for patent that once has been made special and advanced out of turn by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (Office) for examination will continue to be…
Read MoreWhat is the role of the Patent Appeal Center in the ex parte appeal process?
The Patent Appeal Center plays a crucial role in processing ex parte appeals to the Board. According to MPEP 1203, “Appeal documents, such as the notice of appeal, appeal brief, pre-appeal brief request for review (See MPEP § 1204.02), and request for extension of time to file the brief, are processed by the Patent Appeal…
Read MoreWhat is the Board’s docketing procedure for appeals?
The Board’s docketing procedure is designed to provide timely notification to appellants about the status of their appeal. According to MPEP 1203, “The Board’s docketing procedure is designed to provide notification to the appellant within one month of receipt from the Patent Appeal Center of an appealed application at the Board that (A) the appeal…
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