How should examiners handle early allowance of claims in patent applications?
Patent examiners are encouraged to allow claims early in the examination process when appropriate. The MPEP 707.07(j) provides guidance on this matter:
Where the examiner is satisfied that the prior art has been fully developed and some of the claims are clearly allowable, the allowance of such claims should not be delayed.
This approach helps streamline the patent examination process and provides timely feedback to applicants. Examiners can use form paragraphs 7.43, 7.43.01, and 7.43.02 to indicate allowable subject matter in their office actions. Early allowance of claims can benefit both the USPTO and applicants by reducing examination time and costs.
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