What is the process for reissuing a design patent?
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 process for reissuing a design patent follows the general practice and procedure outlined in MPEP Chapter 1400. Specifically for design reissue applications, refer to MPEP § 1457. The MPEP states:
“See MPEP Chapter 1400 for practice and procedure in reissue applications. See also MPEP § 1457 regarding design reissue applications.”
It’s important to note that while a design patent can be reissued to correct errors, “The term of a design patent may not be extended by reissue.” This limitation is based on the case Ex parte Lawrence, 70 USPQ 326 (Comm’r Pat. 1946).