How does a CPA differ from other types of continuing applications?

A Continued Prosecution Application (CPA) differs from other types of continuing applications in several ways:

• CPAs are only available for design applications, not utility applications.
• Filing a CPA automatically establishes the necessary reference to the prior application under 35 U.S.C. 120, without needing to amend the specification.
• CPAs are processed differently from other continuing applications, as outlined in MPEP § 201.06(d).

The MPEP states: ‘As set forth in 37 CFR 1.53(d)(7), a request for a CPA is the specific reference required by 35 U.S.C. 120 to every application assigned the application number identified in such request.’ This unique feature distinguishes CPAs from other types of continuing applications, such as continuations or divisionals, which may require explicit references in the specification.

For more information on continuing applications, visit: continuing applications.

For more information on CPA, visit: CPA.

For more information on design patents, visit: design patents.

For more information on patent application types, visit: patent application types.