Can I reschedule my patent appeal oral hearing?
Yes, you can request to reschedule your patent appeal oral hearing, but it’s generally discouraged unless you have compelling reasons. The MPEP states:
“If the time set in the notice of hearing conflicts with prior commitments or if subsequent events make appearance impossible, the hearing may be rescheduled on written request, in a separate paper addressed to the Clerk of the Board. However, in view of the administrative burden involved in rescheduling hearings and the potential delay which may result in the issuance of any patent based on the application on appeal, postponements are discouraged and will not be granted in the absence of convincing reasons in support of the requested change.”
If you need to reschedule, you should submit a written request to the Clerk of the Board as soon as possible, clearly explaining your reasons for the request.
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