What is the statutory period for replying to a written restriction requirement in a patent application?

The statutory period for replying to a written restriction requirement in a patent application is specified in MPEP 810: “A 2-month shortened statutory period will be set for reply when a written restriction requirement is made without an action on the merits. This period may be extended under the provisions of 37 CFR 1.136(a).” Key…

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What is the general procedure for action on the merits in a patent application with a restriction requirement?

In general, when a nonfinal written restriction requirement is made in a patent application, no action on the merits is given. The procedure typically follows these steps: A 2-month shortened statutory period is set for reply to the written restriction requirement. This period may be extended under 37 CFR 1.136(a). The Office action making the…

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