Why are interviews prohibited in supplemental examination proceedings?
This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice.
Interviews are prohibited in supplemental examination proceedings to ensure efficient processing within the statutory timeframe. The MPEP explains:
“This requirement will assist the Office to process the request for supplemental examination within the three-month statutory period.”
The prohibition on interviews helps streamline the supplemental examination process, allowing the USPTO to complete its review within the mandated three-month period. This rule ensures that all supplemental examination requests are treated uniformly and processed in a timely manner.