What is the effective date for invoking the prior art exception under 35 U.S.C. 102(b)(2)(C)?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10

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.

The effective date for invoking the prior art exception under 35 U.S.C. 102(b)(2)(C) is important to understand. According to the MPEP 717.02(a):

“The effective date of the CREATE Act provisions of the AIA is September 16, 2012.”

This means that the prior art exception can be invoked for any application filed on or after September 16, 2012. For applications filed before this date, different rules may apply.

Tags: AIA, CREATE Act, effective date, prior art exception