What happens to papers received by the USPTO after an application is abandoned?
What happens to papers received by the USPTO after an application is abandoned?
When papers are received by the USPTO after an application has been abandoned, the following process occurs:
- The papers are entered into the Image File Wrapper.
- They are given a Document Code and receipt date.
- The papers are placed in the file but not formally entered.
According to MPEP 719.01: ‘Papers filed after the application is abandoned that are not matched with a previously created PALM folder will be added to the IFW, given a Document Code and receipt date, but will not be formally entered.’
This procedure ensures that all documents related to an application are properly recorded, even if the application is no longer active.
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