Collaborative Search And Examination (CS&E) Pilot Project – The More Patent Searching The Merrier

Several patent offices have launched a “Collaborative Search and Examination” Pilot Project (“CS&E”), which will allow examiners from key patent offices to collaborate on examination of PCT Applications. The goal of the CS&E is to provide better quality patent searches and examination. To encourage use of the CS&E, there is currently no fee for this extra examination; however, the intent is to eventually charge. This article will provide an overview of the CS&E process. Patent applicants interested in using the program may be still be able to access a spot, depending on the capacity of the available patent office and search authority. There will also be new cohorts of applications accepted in 2019 (check with your available IP5 patent office, and act fast if it is of interest — spots are limited).