Patent Law Practice Center

USPTO To Launch Prioritized Patent Examination Program May 4, 2011

The USPTO recently announced that the agency will launch it’s new prioritized examination system known as “Track One” on May 4, 2011.  Under the program, patent applicants can elect to accelerate examination of their patent applications (if the application meets certain requirements) filed on or after May 4, 2011.  The USPTO will then “prioritize” the handling of your patent application with a goal of reaching a final disposition within twelve months.  If “accorded special status”, the patent application will be placed on the examiner’s special docket throughout its entire course of prosecution before the examiner until a final disposition is reached.  Final Disposition for a twelve month goal means: (1) mailing of a notice of allowance; (2) mailing of a final Office action, (3) filing of a notice of appeal, (4) declaration of an interference by the BPAI, (5) filing of a request for continued examination, or (6) abandonment of the application within 12 months from the date prioritized status has been granted.

To qualify for Track One prioritized status, an applicant must meet certain requirements: (more…)