What is the purpose of an interview in patent examination?

The purpose of an interview in patent examination is to discuss issues related to the prosecution of a patent application and to help advance its prosecution. According to MPEP 713.01:

The examiner should not hesitate to state, if such be the case, that it appears that the application is not in condition for allowance, and the reasons why.

Interviews allow examiners and applicants to clarify positions, resolve issues, and potentially reach agreements that can expedite the examination process.

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Tags: Interview Purpose, patent examination, Prosecution Advancement