What is the time limit for filing a judicial review after a PTAB decision?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27

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 time limit for seeking judicial review after a Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) decision is specified in MPEP 1216 and 37 CFR 90.3:

The time for filing a notice of a 35 U.S.C. 141 appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit or for commencing a civil action under 35 U.S.C. 145 is within 63 days of the Board’s decision.

However, if a timely request for rehearing is filed, the time extends to “63 days after a decision on a request for rehearing or reconsideration” (37 CFR 90.3(b)(1)).

It’s important to note that these are calendar days, and if the last day falls on a Federal holiday in Washington, D.C., the time is extended to the next business day.

Tags: civil action, federal circuit appeal, judicial review, ptab decision, time limit