📜Discontinuation of Accelerated Examination Program for Utilities
Discontinuation of the Accelerated Examination Program for Utility Applications
Summary
In order to efficiently allocate examination-related resources to address pendency, and in view of the low number of requests for Accelerated Examination and the availability of a statutory program to expedite the prosecution of applications (Track One, prioritized examination), the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is discontinuing the Accelerated Examination program for utility applications. The USPTO is also modifying the rules of practice to clarify the grounds for which a petition to make special may be granted and when a fee is required for such petition.
Agencies
- Commerce Department
- Patent and Trademark Office
Business Impact
$$ - Med
The discontinuation of the Accelerated Examination Program for utility applications impacts patent applicants, requiring them to rely on the Track One program for expedited examination. This could affect business strategies around technology development and patent applications due to the change in fee structures and the overall efficiency of the patent process.