Intellectual Property Magazine
Filing surge
JenniferFraser discusses how to navigate the delays prompted by the steep rise in UStrademark filings
Jennifer Fraser- Dykema
Mostpractitioners are accustomed to periodic delays in various aspects of US Patentand Trademark Office (USPTO) operations
but there has been a recent surge innew filings that is affecting all aspects of trademark office operationsincluding examination
of applications, review of responses to office actionsand petitions. Forexample, as of July 2021, the USPTO indicated current
pendency for examinationof an application is six months. Inprior years, it could take two to three months for examination.
When the delaysare this widespread and longer than usual, it does create issues forstakeholders and it is advisable to look
for ways to expedite the process.