How does the USPTO handle replies in Accelerated Examination applications?
The USPTO has specific procedures for handling replies in Accelerated Examination applications:
- Replies must be filed electronically via EFS-Web for expeditious processing
- Any amendment not encompassed by the original accelerated examination support document requires an updated support document
- Non-responsive replies may be given a shortened statutory period of two months to supply omissions or corrections
- Extensions of time may be granted but will result in the application being taken out of the accelerated examination program
The MPEP states: “Any reply or other papers must be filed electronically via EFS-Web so that the papers will be expeditiously processed and considered. If the papers are not filed electronically via EFS-Web, the final disposition of the application may occur later than twelve months from the filing of the application.”
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