Can exceptions be made to the application identification guidelines in MPEP 602.08(c)?

While the MPEP 602.08(c) provides specific guidelines for identifying patent applications, it does allow for exceptions in certain circumstances. The MPEP states:

Any variance from the above guidelines will only be considered upon the filing of a petition for waiver of the rules under 37 CFR 1.183 accompanied by a petition fee (37 CFR 1.17(f)).

This means that if you need to deviate from the standard identification requirements, you must:

• File a petition for waiver of the rules under 37 CFR 1.183
• Pay the required petition fee as specified in 37 CFR 1.17(f)

The USPTO will then consider your petition and determine whether to grant an exception to the standard identification requirements. It’s important to note that such exceptions are not automatically granted and should only be sought in unusual circumstances where compliance with the standard requirements is not possible or would cause undue hardship.

To learn more:

• patent application
• identification guidelines
• exceptions
• petition for waiver