USPTO Patent Application Initiatives - During Examination

 Petition to Make SpecialOmbudsman ProgramGeneral Interview Practice
DescriptionApplications 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 DateCirca 12/195904/2010 
Currently Active (accepting applications)YesYesYes
Petition / RequestPetitionRequestRequest
Surcharge / FeeNoNoNo
Claim number limit(s)No - may file 3 Indep. & no more than 20 claims; or pay additional fees See earlier editsN/AN/A
Shortened Prosecution TimeYes - due to earlier FAOM and placement on special amended docketN/AN/A
Special StatusUntil final dispositionN/AN/A
Examination Support DocumentNoN/AN/A
Shortened / Non extendable Response TimesNoN/AN/A
Interview RequiredNoN/AYes
Continuation Applications & RCEs eligible for programYesYesYes
Duration or application limitUnlimited, no expiration.Unlimited, no expiration.No
Status of ProgramPermanentPermanentPermanent