What is the time limit for filing a protest under 37 CFR 1.291?

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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 time limit for filing a protest under 37 CFR 1.291 is before the date the application is published or a notice of allowance is mailed, whichever occurs first. As stated in the MPEP 1901 : “A protest must be submitted prior to the date the application was published or a notice of allowance under 37 CFR 1.311 was mailed, whichever occurs first.” It’s important to note that if the protest is accompanied by the written consent of the applicant, it may be entered and considered after this time limit. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Protest Must Be Filed Before Notice of Allowance And Have Applicant’s Consent MPEP 1901 Required Protest Must Be Filed Before Notice of Allowance MPEP 1901 Required Protest Must Be Filed Before Publication Or Allowance MPEP 1901 Required Protest Must Include Specific Information and Documents MPEP 1901 Required No Office Communication After Protest Filing MPEP 1901 Permitted Protest Must Accompany Statement or Compliance MPEP 1901 Protest Must Include Detailed Information List and Supporting Documents MPEP 1901 Required First Protest Must Include Statement or Comply with Paragraph (c)(5) MPEP 1901 Required Written Protest Required Before Publication MPEP 1901 No Further Submissions After Protest Filing MPEP 1901 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Can a protest be filed anonymously under 37 CFR 1.291? What happens if a protest is filed after the time limit under 37 CFR 1.291? What information must be included in a protest? What happens if a protest is filed after the time limit specified in 37 CFR 1.291? What are the time limits for filing a protest under 37 CFR 1.291?