What is the significance of the Patent Law Treaty (PLT) in after final practice for reexaminations?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 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. The Patent Law Treaty (PLT) has influenced the after final practice in reexaminations, particularly regarding extensions of time. The MPEP states: The present after final practice of providing an automatic two-month extension for filing a response to a final Office action is in conformance with the minimum reply period provisions of the Patent Law Treaty (PLT). As a result of this conformance with the PLT: An automatic two-month extension is provided for filing a response to a final Office action. Additional “no cause” extensions of time for filing a response to a final Office action are not available in patent owner requested or Director ordered reexaminations. Any extensions of time for more than two months from the time for response set in the final rejection must provide a showing of sufficient cause in accordance with 37 CFR 1.550(c)(3) . This practice ensures that the USPTO’s procedures align with international standards while maintaining the integrity of the reexamination process. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Automatic Two-Month Extension for Final Rejection Response MPEP 2272 Extension of Time for First Response After Final Rejection in Ex Parte Reexamination MPEP 2272 Advisory Action Required After Final Rejection MPEP 2272 Amendments After Final Rejection Governed by Strict Standards MPEP 2272 Response to Final Rejection Normally Due Within Two Months MPEP 2272 Amendments After Final Rejection Require Showing MPEP 2272 Prohibited No Time Period for Omissions After Final Rejection MPEP 2272 Patent Owner Entitled to Examiner’s Ruling Before Appeal MPEP 2272 Required Extensions Beyond Two Months Require Sufficient Cause MPEP 2272 Requir...