In a post back in June, I discussed how many filing errors/omissions in new, electronically filed applications may be corrected by a follow up submission on the same day. Not every omission may be corrected this way, however. Since my June post on the correction of filings, I have received several emails inquiring about the…
Category: Practice Suggestions
The USPTO’s 25% Discount For Application Size Fee Calculations And How To Qualify For It
There are many advantages to filing applications via the USPTO’s electronic filing system (EFS-Web). One practical advantage is that the USPTO measures the size of an electronically filed application differently than if it were filed by paper. An application filed under 35 U.S.C. 111 (this includes provisional, nonprovisional and design applications, and reissue applications) that…
The USPTO’S Newest Pilot Program – The Patents Ombudsman
Have you ever had a question about an application in prosecution but have been unable to find the correct person to assist you? Have you ever been unsuccessful in obtaining assistance from an examiner or Supervisory Patent Examiner? If so, you will want to take note of the USPTO’s new Ombudsman Pilot Program. The Ombudsman…
A Discussion About S-Signatures With Examples
Introduction “S-signatures” have been accepted by the USPTO for several years now. An S-signature is an electronic signature betwen forward slashes and includes any signature made by non-handwritten means (i.e. electronic or mechanical). See MPEP 502.02 and 37 CFR 1.4(d)(2). This type of signature was part of the changes made in the USPTO to support…
The Five Requirements Of Every Petition In The USPTO
Introduction Most actions during prosecution of a patent application in the USPTO are eventually subject to quasi-judicial review by an appeal to the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences. The classic example of an action that is subject to this type of review is an art (§102 and/or §103) rejection of a claim. Other actions,…