The patent process
Answer in brief
After filing, an examiner searches the prior art and issues office actions; the applicant responds with arguments or amendments until the application is allowed or finally rejected.
Stages
- Filing and formalities review.
- Examination: search and first office action.
- Response: amendments and arguments.
- Final action, then appeal or continued examination if needed.
- Notice of allowance and issue fee.
- Grant.
Who can file for you
Only USPTO-registered practitioners may prosecute applications for others. Find one in Wysebridge's firm directory, or read about the examination process in MPEP 2103.
Sources for this entry
- Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP) USPTO
The examination manual the patent bar is tested on; open book during the exam. - USPTO — Finding a patent practitioner USPTO
USPTO guidance on finding and verifying a registered patent attorney or agent. - Wysebridge — Patent law firm directory Wysebridge (publisher of this site)
U.S. patent law firms, browsable by state, built from USPTO practitioner data.
Practical guidance is original editorial content. Company-published figures are the company's own claims and are labeled as such.
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Cite or share this entry
Patent Law Center. “The patent process.” Wysebridge Reference. Content reviewed 9 November 2026.
https://patentlawcenter.com/patent-process/