What types of petitions are decided by Technology Center Directors?
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.
According to MPEP 1002.02(c), Technology Center Directors are authorized to decide several types of petitions, including:
- Petitions to reopen prosecution after a decision by the Patent Trial and Appeal Board
- Petitions from a final decision of examiner requiring restriction
- Petitions invoking supervisory authority regarding actions by examiners
- Petitions regarding premature final rejection
- Petitions relating to interviews with examiners
The MPEP states: “Petitions invoking the supervisory authority of the Director of the USPTO under 37 CFR 1.181 involving any ex parte action or requirement in a patent application by the examiner which is not subject to appeal (37 CFR 1.191) and not otherwise provided for” are decided by Technology Center Directors.