What are specified time limits in patent examination?
Specified time limits in patent examination are situations where the examiner sets a specific timeframe for the applicant to take certain actions. According to MPEP 710.02(c), these time limits are used in cases where “the applicant’s failure to timely take the specified action results in a consequence other than abandonment.”
Some examples of situations where specified time limits are used include:
- Responding to public petitions for access to an application
- Completing information disclosure statements
- Addressing restriction requirements in otherwise allowable applications
- Adding claims to provoke an interference
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