Legal Definitions - shortened statutory period

In the world of patents, a shortened statutory period refers to a specific amount of time given to a patent applicant to respond to an office action. This period is less than six months, but not less than 30 days.

For most responses, the period can be extended up to the statutory period of six months. However, in certain circumstances, a shortened statutory period may be granted.

Let's say that a patent applicant receives an office action from the patent office. This office action outlines issues or objections that the patent examiner has with the application. The applicant is given a certain amount of time to respond to this office action.

If the applicant is granted a shortened statutory period, they will have less than six months to respond. For example, they may be given only 60 days to respond instead of the full six months.

This shortened period is typically granted in situations where the patent office deems it necessary to expedite the application process. For example, if the patent office is experiencing a backlog of applications, they may grant shortened statutory periods to help move things along more quickly.