Can a Continued Prosecution Application (CPA) be filed for design applications?

Yes, a Continued Prosecution Application (CPA) can be filed for design applications. In fact, as of September 8, 2000, CPAs are only available for design applications. According to MPEP 201.06(d):

‘Effective July 14, 2003, CPA practice has been eliminated as to utility and plant applications. CPAs can only be filed for design applications.’

This means that for utility and plant patent applications, other forms of continuing applications such as RCEs (Request for Continued Examination) or continuation applications under 37 CFR 1.53(b) must be used instead of CPAs.

For more information on continued prosecution application, visit: continued prosecution application.

For more information on CPA, visit: CPA.

For more information on design applications, visit: design applications.