Our Measures for COVID-19

Extensions
In case you do not receive the applicant’s instruction in time, then please let us know, and we will extend any extendable period initially at our own expense. We will also extend the period, in case we do not hear from you. Only if the applicant later decides to pursue the case, will we bill for the extension. Those measures will apply to all your due dates managed at our firm that fall on or before April 30, 2020, which might be extended.

Our Requests
The following due dates are NOT extendable.
　　　　Request for examination
　　　　Appeal from a Decision of Rejection
　　　　Those already extended to the maximum amount
The remedial measures at the Japan Patent Office (JPO) are strict. Please provide your instructions earlier than usual for safety. We have requested the same as well to our Japanese clients who file applications abroad.

Working from Home
Currently, all our members who are over 60 or have health conditions are working from home. From March 18, 2020, all attorneys and secretaries will be able to work from home and prosecute the applications before the JPO. This is not only a preventative measure, but also preparation for an office shut-down in the event of a test-positive.

We wish for good health of your team members and families. Let us help each other through this difficult time.