What is an unintentionally delayed priority claim?

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

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.

An unintentionally delayed priority claim occurs when a claim for foreign priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(a) through (d) or (f), 365(a) or (b), or 386(a) or 386(b) is not presented within the time period provided by 37 CFR 1.55(d). In such cases, the claim is considered to have been waived but may be accepted if the delay was unintentional.

As stated in the MPEP: “If a claim for priority is considered to have been waived under this section, the claim may be accepted if the priority claim was unintentionally delayed.”

Topics: MPEP 200 – Types and Status of Application; Benefit and Priority Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Disclosure Individuals, Disclosure Timing, Materiality Standard, Prima Facie Case