What is the maximum statutory period for reply in patent applications?

What is the maximum statutory period for reply in patent applications?

The maximum statutory period for reply in patent applications is six months. This is established in MPEP 710, which states:

The maximum statutory period for reply to an Office action is 6 months. 35 U.S.C. 133. Shortened periods are currently used in most cases.

However, it’s important to note that while six months is the maximum, the USPTO typically sets shorter periods for most responses to encourage prompt prosecution of applications.

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Tags: office action response, patent application, statutory period, USPTO