How can I submit a Computer Readable Form (CRF) of a Sequence Listing?
According to MPEP 2421.01, there are two main ways to submit a Computer Readable Form (CRF) of a Sequence Listing: On a read-only optical disc As an ASCII plain text file via the Office patent electronic filing system The MPEP states: The CRF may be submitted on read-only optical disc or may be submitted as…
Read MoreHow should ASCII plain text sequence listings be prepared for submission to the USPTO?
When preparing ASCII plain text sequence listings for submission to the USPTO, follow these guidelines from MPEP 2422.03(a): Use a fixed width font (e.g., Courier) in a text editor. Set line length to 60-72 characters. Begin each line in the sequence listing with a 1 or greater positive integer. Use the symbols set forth in…
Read MoreHow should sequence-related submissions be marked for the USPTO?
According to MPEP 2433, all sequence-related submissions to the USPTO should be marked “Box SEQUENCE.” This includes “all computer readable forms, read-only optical discs, fees, and papers accompanying them filed in the Office.” This marking facilitates administrative processing of all papers and read-only optical discs associated with sequence rule compliance. To learn more: sequence listing…
Read MoreHow can I submit an ex parte reexamination request to the USPTO?
According to MPEP 2210, there are three ways to submit an ex parte reexamination request to the USPTO: Via mail Hand-delivery The Office’s Electronic Filing System (EFS, currently EFS-Web) For electronic submission: “Both registered and unregistered eFilers may submit a request for reexamination. A request for reexamination submitted via EFS must be submitted by selecting…
Read MoreHow can a patent owner change the correspondence address for a patent under reexamination?
To change the correspondence address for a patent under reexamination, the patent owner should submit a request to the USPTO. The MPEP 2222 provides specific instructions for such submissions: “Where a request for ex parte reexamination has been filed:” Mail Stop “Ex Parte Reexam”Attn: Central Reexamination UnitCommissioner for PatentsP.O. Box 1450Alexandria, VA 22313-1450 For inter…
Read MoreCan a protest be submitted anonymously to the USPTO?
Yes, a protest can be submitted anonymously to the USPTO. The MPEP 1901.03 explicitly states: “The protest may be submitted either with or without identification of the real party in interest.” This means that individuals or entities can file a protest without revealing their identity. However, it’s important to note that while anonymity is allowed,…
Read MoreWhat additional documents should accompany a submission of confidential materials to the USPTO?
When submitting confidential materials to the USPTO, you should include additional documents to ensure proper handling. The MPEP states: The envelope or container must be accompanied by a transmittal letter which also contains the same identifying information as the envelope or container. The transmittal letter must also state that the materials in the envelope or…
Read MoreHow should envelopes containing trade secret or proprietary materials be addressed to the USPTO?
Envelopes or containers with trade secret or proprietary materials should be clearly addressed and labeled. The MPEP provides examples of appropriate labels: A. ‘TRADE SECRET MATERIAL NOT OPEN TO PUBLIC. TO BE OPENED ONLY BY EXAMINER OR OTHER AUTHORIZED U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE EMPLOYEE. DO NOT SCAN’ or B. ‘PROPRIETARY MATERIAL NOT OPEN TO…
Read MoreHow should trade secret or proprietary materials be submitted to the USPTO?
Trade secret or proprietary materials must be clearly labeled and submitted in a sealed, clearly labeled envelope or container. The MPEP states: Information which is considered by the party submitting the same to be either trade secret material or proprietary material, and any material subject to a protective order, must be clearly labeled as such…
Read MoreHow do I prove the date of deposit for Priority Mail Express® submissions to the USPTO?
How do I prove the date of deposit for Priority Mail Express® submissions to the USPTO? To prove the date of deposit for Priority Mail Express® submissions to the USPTO, you should: Retain the ‘date-in’ receipt from the USPS, which shows the ‘date-in’ of deposit with the USPS. Ensure the ‘date-in’ or the ‘date accepted’…
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