What happens if a third party submits a petition regarding patent term adjustment?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30

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.

If a third party submits a petition or any document concerning patent term adjustment, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) will not consider it. According to MPEP 2736:

“Any such submission or petition will be returned to the third party, or otherwise disposed of, at the convenience of the Office.”

This means that the USPTO will either return the submission to the third party or dispose of it as they see fit. The Office is not obligated to process or review these submissions in any way.

Topics: Adjustments And Extensions MPEP 2700 - Patent Terms MPEP 2736 - Third - Party Papers Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Pta Request Reconsideration