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The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) is extending the Fast-Track Appeals Pilot Program for a second time. Under this program, appellants with a docketed ex parte appeal may file a petition to expedite review of the appeal by the PTAB. A notice of the second extension will publish shortly in the Federal Register. The extension continues the program for another two years. The new expiration date is July 2, 2024.
Currently, the average appeal pendency is about 12 months, down from 15 months in 2020, and 30 months in 2015. Using the appeal process may be more expeditious for inventors and may speed the ultimate issuance of patents as opposed to request for continued examination practice.
For additional information on the Fast-Track Appeals Pilot Program, see the PTAB's webpage.
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