Prosecuting a patent application




  • Begins with filing and ends with issue or abandonment

  • Negotiation with society (Examiner)

  • Election/restriction

  • First Office action on merits/rejection

  • Amendment, declarations

  • Second (typically "final") Office action

  • Petitions

  • Agree or Appeal to Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences

  • Agree or Appeal to Court

  • Issue