Definition
A final rejection is an office action that ends the standard examination round, restricting the applicant to limited responses such as appeal, a request for continued examination, or narrow amendments.
Why It Matters Legally
A final rejection forces strategic choices: appeal, refile, or abandon. Understanding the limited options at this stage is important to avoid losing the application or spending money unwisely.
Example Use Case
After a final rejection, an applicant files a request for continued examination to reopen prosecution and submit new arguments.
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Related Terms
Office Action, Request for Continued Examination, Patent Appeal, Examiner, Patent Prosecution