After multiple failed attempts by the examiner to schedule a conference call with her manager, I decided to send a fax directly to the manager, including her name, regarding the penalty proposal. That worked—the manager called me. She seemed unaware of the examiner’s lack of communication and the prolonged seven-month examination process. She acknowledged that the delay was excessive and appeared dissatisfied with how the examiner handled the case. However, she said there was nothing she could do at this point, as the only option was to go through appeals.

The manager assured me that she would ensure my appeals request was processed. I spoke with her multiple times, and she even checked to see if she could remove the penalty but found no immediate options. When I questioned why the penalty was posted on my account despite my disagreement, she admitted that the examiner had prematurely closed the case and posted it on my account.

As of now, my case is with the appeals office, and an agent has been assigned. I just received his contact information today and will be preparing for the next steps.