USPTO Timeliness Slipping: Patent Term Change Information Shows Expanding Exam Delays

.by Dennis Crouch.The USPTO has two standard features: (1) top quality evaluation to make sure applications satisfy the demanding legal requirements of patentability as well as (2) quick and effective handling of those applications. Latest data suggests the Office is dealing with the next of these mandates, as reflected in a vigorous uptick in License Phrase Change (PTA) honors. [Charts below]