How does MPEP 715.01(c) apply to AIA applications?
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 715.01(c) is primarily focused on pre-AIA applications. The section begins with an important note:
[Editor Note: This MPEP section is not applicable to applications subject to the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA unless being relied upon to overcome a rejection under pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102(g). See 35 U.S.C. 100 (note) and MPEP § 2159.]
For applications subject to AIA provisions, the MPEP provides different guidance:
- For affidavits or declarations of attribution or prior public disclosure in AIA applications, refer to MPEP § 717.
- For affidavits or declarations under 37 CFR 1.131(c), see MPEP § 718.
- For applications subject to current 35 U.S.C. 102, see MPEP §§ 2153 and 2154.
It’s crucial for patent attorneys and examiners to determine whether an application is subject to pre-AIA or AIA provisions before applying the guidance in MPEP 715.01(c).