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How to Configure Docket Number Counters

This article explains how ArcPrime assigns docket numbers to new patent families and disclosures, and how to move the counters forward.

Written by Jonathan Liu
The Docket Numbers settings page showing the Next patent docket number and Next disclosure docket number fields with their steppers and preview text underneath

Prerequisites

  • You have permission to view docket number settings. Changing the counters requires the update permission.

Understanding Docket Number Counters

ArcPrime assigns docket numbers automatically from two counters. One numbers each new patent family and the other numbers each new invention disclosure. A counter can only move forward, past the highest number already in use.

The preview under each field shows how the next number renders in your workspace's docket format. Disclosure numbers use the IDF- prefix followed by the padded serial.

Steps

Review the Next Numbers

  1. Open Settings from the sidebar.

  2. Under Workspace Data, select Docket Numbers.

  3. Read Next patent docket number. It is assigned to the next patent family that is created. The line Preview (first US filing) shows the docket number that family's first US case receives.

  4. Read Next disclosure docket number. It is assigned to the next invention disclosure that is created, and Preview shows the result.

Move a Counter Forward

Move a counter when you are migrating records and want ArcPrime to continue from a number above your existing ones.

  1. Use the stepper or enter a new value in the field.

  2. Check the message under the field. If the value is not above the highest number in use, ArcPrime shows the minimum you can enter.

  3. Click Save in the footer bar. A confirmation appears when the counters are updated.

Let ArcPrime Assign a Docket Number

  1. Open Patents and click the button to add a patent.

  2. Leave the Internal ID field blank. The placeholder reads Enter an ID, or leave blank to create one automatically.

  3. Save the patent. ArcPrime assigns the next number from the counter and advances it.

Note: Counters also advance when cases arrive by email or ingestion, so the page fetches fresh values each time you open it. Refresh before editing if the page has been open for a while.

Docket numbers appear as the Internal ID on each patent. See the patent information tab to review or edit an existing one.

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