The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has set forth new rules regarding the ex parte appeal process before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board. The new rules took effect on January 23, 2012, with a majority of the changes being directed to the contents of Applicant’s appeal brief. The rules are intended to reduce the burdens placed on Applicants during the appeal process and also reduce the pendency of appeals in general, in an effort to reduce the backlog of appeals at the USPTO. Below is a link to a presentation discussing the new rules. Please contact us if you would like more information on the new ex parte appeal rules.

1. New Ex Parte Appeal Rules Patent and Trademark Practice Group Meeting January 26, 2012