What is the purpose of MPEP 704 – Search and Requirements for Information?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. MPEP 704 – Search and Requirements for Information serves multiple purposes in the patent examination process: It provides guidance on conducting thorough prior art searches It outlines procedures for requesting additional information from applicants It helps ensure that patent applications are examined efficiently and thoroughly According to MPEP 704 : “The examiner, in the exercise of authority under 37 CFR 1.105, may require the submission of information reasonably necessary to properly examine or treat a matter in an application.” This section is crucial for examiners to gather all necessary information for a comprehensive examination. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Requirement for Information Necessary to Examination MPEP 704.10 Requirement for Information Under 37 CFR 1.105 MPEP 704.14(a) Required Requirement for Reasonably Necessary Information MPEP 704.11 Required Examiner Can Require Reasonably Necessary Info MPEP 704.10 Permitted Requirement for Information Under 37 CFR 1.105 MPEP 704.12(b) Required Requirement for Information May Be Made in Abandoned or Issued Applications Under Limited Circumstances MPEP 704.11(b) Permitted Art Submitted with 37 CFR 1.105 Must Be Considered MPEP 704.14(b) Required Narrow Scope for Examiner Information Requests MPEP 704.11 Recommended Information Requirement Not Jeopardizing Candor and Good Faith MPEP 704.11 Requirement for Determining Prior Art Status of Dependent Claim Elements MPEP 704.11(a) Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What authority do patent examiners have under MPEP 704? How does MPEP 704 relate to prior art searches? How does MPEP 704 define a &#8216;reasonable search&#8217; for prior ar...