How are allowed secrecy order applications handled?

Allowed secrecy order applications require special handling to maintain security while progressing through the patent process. The MPEP 130 provides guidance on this:

When a secrecy order case is allowed, the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) is notified. The notice of allowance and issue fee letters are drafted and reviewed in the Technology Center and may be hand carried to OPAP for mailing.

Key points about handling allowed secrecy order applications:

• The Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) is notified of the allowance.
• Notice of allowance and issue fee letters are carefully drafted and reviewed.
• These documents may be hand-carried to OPAP for mailing to ensure security.
• The application remains under secrecy order even after allowance.
• Special care is taken to prevent unauthorized disclosure throughout the process.

This careful handling ensures that the application’s classified status is maintained even as it progresses towards issuance.

For more information on classified information, visit: classified information.

For more information on patent issuance, visit: patent issuance.