A threshold question for each patent filing is the speed at which a patent is desired.
In many cases, applicants want to obtain patent protection as rapidly as possible in order to guard against infringers or as a show of success to potential investors. In these situations, there are a variety of mechanisms available including: petitions to advance examination in the United States (e.g., a petition to make special); an accelerated request for search and examination in foreign jurisdictions such as Europe or the United Kingdom.
Please see full publication below for more information.