Can the USPTO act on a reissue application before the two-month delay period expires?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27

This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice.

Yes, the USPTO can act on a reissue application before the two-month delay period expires under certain circumstances. MPEP ยง 1441 states:

For example, the Office may act on a continuation or a divisional reissue application before the expiration of the 2-month period after announcement. Additionally, the Office will entertain a petition under 37 CFR 1.182 which is accompanied by the required petition fee (37 CFR 1.17(f)) to act on a reissue application without delaying for 2 months.

This means that continuation or divisional reissue applications may be acted upon earlier, and applicants can petition for expedited action if they have valid reasons, such as ongoing litigation involving the patent.

Tags: expedited action, Patent Litigation, reissue applications, two-month delay, USPTO procedures