Who approves a substitute examiner’s answer after a Board remand?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 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. According to MPEP § 1211.01 , a substitute examiner’s answer written in response to a Board remand must be approved by a Technology Center Director or designee. The MPEP states: “A Technology Center Director or designee has approved this substitute examiner’s answer by signing below: [3]” This approval process ensures that the substitute examiner’s answer is reviewed at a higher level before being issued. It’s important to note that this approval is required for every substitute examiner’s answer following a Board remand. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Board Remand Is Not Final For Review MPEP 1211 Remand for New Ground of Rejection Required MPEP 1211 Permitted Examiner Must Act Consistently With Remand Order MPEP 1211 Recommended Examiner Must Follow MPEP §1207 After Remand MPEP 1211 Recommended Remand for New Ground of Rejection When Law Changes MPEP 1211 Permitted Director and Board Can Remand Cases to Examiners MPEP 1211 Appeal Jurisdiction Transferred Back to Examiner on Remand MPEP 1211 Petition and Fee Required for Application Access MPEP 103 Permitted Petitioner's Complete Address Required for Identification MPEP 103 Recommended Telephone and Facsimile Numbers Required for Petitions MPEP 103 Recommended Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Can I submit an affidavit or declaration after an appeal has been filed? What happens to affidavits filed after final rejection but before a notice of appeal? When can affidavits or declarations be considered after a notice of appeal is filed? What happens if a proposed amendment is effectively an abandonment of the appeal? What types of amendments may be remanded for consideration during an appeal?