What is a substitute examiner’s answer in the context of a remand?

A substitute examiner’s answer is a document prepared by the examiner in response to a remand, particularly when a new ground of rejection is to be entered. MPEP 1211 mentions: “Such a remand may require the examiner to prepare a substitute examiner’s answer to enter the new ground of rejection.” This document allows the examiner to formally present the new ground of rejection and provide the applicant with an opportunity to respond to the updated examination.

To learn more:

• substitute examiner’s answer
• remand
• new ground of rejection
• patent examination