Is the entry of copied patent claims in an amendment under 37 CFR 1.312 automatically allowed?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10

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.

No, the entry of copied patent claims in an amendment under 37 CFR 1.312 is not automatically allowed. MPEP 714.16(a) explicitly states: “The entry of the copied patent claims is not a matter of right.” This means that the USPTO has discretion in deciding whether to accept such amendments after the notice of allowance has been issued. Patent applicants and attorneys should be aware that including copied claims in a late-stage amendment does not guarantee their acceptance into the application.

Tags: Copied Claims, notice of allowance, patent amendments, Uspto Discretion