How do I determine if my patent application is subject to pre-AIA or AIA provisions?
Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29
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.
To determine whether your application is subject to pre-AIA or AIA provisions, consider the following guidelines from the MPEP:
- Applications filed before March 16, 2013, are governed by pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103.
- Applications filed on or after March 16, 2013, are subject to AIA provisions, unless they have never contained a claim with an effective filing date on or after March 16, 2013, and have never claimed the benefit of an application that contained such a claim.
The MPEP states: “Thus, any application filed before March 16, 2013, is governed by pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103 (i.e., the application is a pre-AIA (first to invent) application (hereinafter “pre-AIA application”)).” For more detailed guidance, refer to MPEP § 2159 et seq.
Topics:
MPEP 2100 - Patentability
MPEP 2150 - Examination Guidelines For 35 U.S.C. 102 And 103 As Amended By The First Inventor To File Provisions Of The Leahy - Smith America Invents Act
Patent Law
Patent Procedure