What kind of response is needed if an application in the USPTO has inadvertently missing pages?

When an application submitted to the USPTO is found to have inadvertently missing pages, the proper response is to submit a petition to correct the missing pages. This is crucial because the completeness of the application is essential for the examination process. A petition allows the applicant to formally request the restoration of the missing content, ensuring that the application can be adequately evaluated by the examiner.

The petitioning process acknowledges that there was an error in the initial submission while providing a pathway to rectify that error without starting the entire application process over. It preserves the original filing date and reduces the risk of losing any rights associated with the application due to the missing elements.

Submitting a new application would not be necessary unless the missing information rendered the application noncompliant and the petition route was not sufficient to address the issue. Additionally, accepting the application as is would not be appropriate, as incomplete applications hinder the ability of the office to conduct a thorough examination. Thus, seeking correction through a petition is the correct and most effective approach in this scenario.