When does jurisdiction over a patent application transfer from the Patent Examining Corps to the Board?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 Rules 3 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 transfer of jurisdiction from the Patent Examining Corps to the Board occurs at a specific point in the appeal process. According to MPEP 1203 , “Jurisdiction over the proceeding passes to the Board upon the filing of a reply brief under 37 CFR 41.41 or the expiration of the time in which to file such a reply brief, whichever is earlier.” This is further specified in 37 CFR 41.35 . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Patent Examining Corps Handles Appeal Proceedings MPEP 1203 Board Takes Jurisdiction After Reply Brief MPEP 1203 Appeal Documents Processed by Patent Appeal Center MPEP 1203 Filing Appeal Brief Within Designated Time MPEP 1203 Review of Appeal Documents for Compliance MPEP 1203 Examiner Review of Appeal Documents MPEP 1203 Recommended Examiner Must Contact Appeal Center for Substantial Defects MPEP 1203 Recommended Correction of Examiner's Answer Allowed MPEP 1203 Permitted Appeal Docketing Process Requirements MPEP 1203 Appeals Assigned to Master Docket or Direct Panel MPEP 1203 Other Related FAQs 3 FAQs Collapse What is the Board&#8217;s docketing procedure for appeals? What is the role of the Patent Appeal Center in the ex parte appeal process? How are &#8220;special&#8221; applications handled during the appeal process?