What is a supplemental amendment in patent prosecution?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 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. A supplemental amendment is an additional reply filed after an initial response to an Office action. According to MPEP 714.03(a) , supplemental replies are not entered as a matter of right, except in specific circumstances. The MPEP states: ‘Supplemental replies will not be entered as a matter of right, except when a supplemental reply is filed within a suspended period under 37 CFR 1.103(a) or (c) (e.g., a suspension of action requested by the applicant when filing an RCE).’ The Office may, however, enter a supplemental reply if it meets certain criteria, such as cancellation of claims or adoption of examiner suggestions. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Supplemental Amendment Not Entered As Right MPEP 714 Supplemental Amendment Not Entered As Right MPEP 714 Supplemental Reply Must Be Entered Outside Suspension Period MPEP 714.03(a) Required Response to Final Office Action Required to Avoid Abandonment MPEP 714 Supplemental Reply Not Compliant with 37 CFR 1.121 MPEP 714.03(a) Not-Entered Supplemental Reply Must Be Resubmitted MPEP 714.03(a) Recommended Requirement for Indicating Response to Supplemental Reply MPEP 714.03(a) Recommended Examiner Discretion for Supplemental Reply Entry MPEP 714.03(a) Supplemental Reply Reduces Patent Term Adjustment MPEP 714.03(a) After-Allowance Amendments Not Entered Automatically MPEP 714 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What are the criteria for entry of a supplemental amendment under MPEP 714.03(a)? What is the purpose of MPEP 714.03(a) regarding supplemental amendments? How does MPEP 714.03(a) address supplemental amendments that raise new issues? What is the timeframe for filing supplemental amendments und...