During Examination
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After Close of Prosecution »
| Petition to Make Special | Ombudsman Program | General Interview Practice | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Description | Applications will not be advanced out of turn for examination or for further action except as provided by this part. | The Patents Ombudsman Program enhances the USPTO's ability to assist applicants or their representatives with issues that arise during patent application prosecution. | The USPTO encourages examiners to take a proactive approach to examination by reaching out and engaging our stakeholders in an effort to resolve issues and shorten prosecution. |
| Program Start Date | Circa 12/1959 | 04/2010 | |
| Currently Active (accepting applications) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Petition / Request | Petition | Request | Request |
| Surcharge / Fee | No | No | No |
| Claim number limit(s) | No - may file 3 Indep. & no more than 20 claims; or pay additional fees See earlier edits | N/A | N/A |
| Shortened Prosecution Time | Yes - due to earlier FAOM and placement on special amended docket | N/A | N/A |
| Special Status | Until final disposition | N/A | N/A |
| Examination Support Document | No | N/A | N/A |
| Shortened / Non extendable Response Times | No | N/A | N/A |
| Interview Required | No | N/A | Yes |
| Continuation Applications & RCEs eligible for program | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Duration or application limit | Unlimited, no expiration. | Unlimited, no expiration. | No |
| Status of Program | Permanent | Permanent | Permanent |