What is the ‘three-month shortened statutory period’ in patent examination?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 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 ‘three-month shortened statutory period’ refers to the time frame given to applicants to respond to a final rejection in patent examination. According to MPEP 706.07 , ‘The Office action will set a shortened statutory period for reply to a final rejection, which is typically three months.’ This period allows applicants to: File a reply under 37 CFR 1.116 File a request for continued examination (RCE) under 37 CFR 1.114 Appeal the rejection to the Patent Trial and Appeal Board Applicants can request extensions of time under 37 CFR 1.136(a), but these come with additional fees. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Final Rejection Practice for Reexamination MPEP 706.07 Final Rejection Must Clearly State Grounds of Rejection MPEP 706.07 Required Final Rejection Must Include Previous Grounds and Rebuttal MPEP 706.07 Recommended Final Rejection Must Conclude with Form Paragraph 7.39 MPEP 706.07 Recommended Amendments Required After Final Rejection MPEP 706.07 Notification of Options After Final Rejection to Pro Se Applicant MPEP 706.07 Required Information Required Before First Office Action on Merits MPEP 706 Required Reply Must Comply with §1.114 for Final Rejection MPEP 706.07 Required Reconsideration and Examination After Response MPEP 706 Reexamination Application Reconsidered After Response MPEP 706 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What are the requirements for making a second or subsequent action final in patent examination? Can an examiner make a rejection final after a first Office action on the merits? What is the difference between a first action final rejection and a second action final rejection in patent examination? How does an examiner...