What are the consequences of filing a nonprovisional application without drawings?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. Filing a nonprovisional application without drawings can have significant consequences: The application may be considered incomplete. It may not receive a filing date. The applicant will be notified of the deficiency. As stated in MPEP 601.01(a) : ‘If the specification of a nonprovisional application does not include at least one drawing, if necessary under 35 U.S.C. 113 (first sentence) to understand the subject matter sought to be patented, and at least one drawing is necessary under 35 U.S.C. 113, the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) will send a notice requiring drawings and a time period within which drawings must be filed in order to avoid abandonment.’ It’s important to note that drawings are required when necessary to understand the invention. If drawings are not necessary, the application can proceed without them. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Translation and Fee Requirements to Avoid Abandonment MPEP 601.01(a) Required Contents of Patent Application Required MPEP 601 Required Provisional Application Does Not Require Claims Or Oath/Declaration MPEP 601 Required Contents of Patent Application Required MPEP 601.01(a) Required Provisional Application Filing Requirements MPEP 601 Provisional Application Does Not Entitle Priority MPEP 601 Required Provisional Application Does Not Get Priority MPEP 601 Prohibited Specification Must Not Include New Matter After Filing Date MPEP 601.01(a) Permitted Filing Fee Required for Provisional Application MPEP 601 Required Application Fees Must Be Paid Within Time Period MPEP 601.01(a) Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does the USPTO handle incomplete nonprovisional applicatio...