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201.09 Substitute Application [R-2] - 200 Types, Cross-Noting, and Status of Application


201.09 Substitute Application [R-2]

The use of the term "Substitute" to designate any application which is in essence the duplicate of an application by the same applicant abandoned before the filing of the later application, finds official recognition in the decision Ex parte Komenak, 1940 C.D. 1, 512 O.G. 739 (Comm'r Pat. 1940). Current practice does not require applicant to insert in the specification reference to the earlier application; however, attention should be called to the earlier application. The notation *>in< the file *>history< (see MPEP § 202.02) that one application is a "Substitute" for another is printed in the heading of the patent copies. See MPEP § 202.02.

As is explained in MPEP § 201.11, a "Substitute" does not obtain the benefit of the filing date of the prior application.

Use form paragraph 2.07 to remind applicant of possible substitute status.


¶ 2.07 Definition of a Substitute

Applicant refers to this application as a "substitute" of Application No. [1], filed [2]. The use of the term "substitute" to designate an application which is in essence the duplicate of an application by the same applicant abandoned before the filing of the later case finds official recognition in the decision, Ex parte Komenak, 1940 C.D. 1, 512 O.G. 739 (Comm'r Pat. 1940). The notation on the file wrapper (See MPEP § 202.02) that one case is a "substitute" for another is printed in the heading of the patent copies. A "substitute" does not obtain the benefit of the filing date of the prior application.

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