What is the examiner’s role in identifying mistakes in international patent applications?

While examiners are not primarily responsible for discovering mistakes in international patent applications, they may bring errors to the applicant’s attention if they notice them. The MPEP 1876 states:

“Although the examiner is not responsible for discovering mistakes in the international application, if any mistakes come to the attention of the examiner, they may be noted and called to the applicant’s attention.”

This approach allows examiners to assist in improving the quality of applications without placing the burden of error detection solely on them.

To learn more:

• International patent applications
• Patent examination
• Error correction
• PCT