What types of matters are delegated to the Office of Petitions in the USPTO?
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 Office of Petitions in the USPTO is responsible for a wide range of administrative matters. According to MPEP 1002.01, these include:
- Petitions to revive abandoned applications
- Petitions to accept delayed payment of issue fees
- Requests for expedited examination of design applications
- Petitions to make patent applications special
- Petitions for express abandonment to avoid publication
- Requests to withdraw as attorney of record
This diverse set of responsibilities allows the Office of Petitions to address various administrative issues that arise during the patent application and examination process.