What happens if new evidence is filed after the appeal brief in a patent application?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27

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.

If new evidence is filed after the appeal brief in a patent application, the examiner must determine whether the evidence overcomes all rejections. According to MPEP 1206:

“If the examiner determines that the evidence overcomes all rejections, the examiner should issue a new Office action withdrawing all previous rejections and either allowing the application or setting forth new ground(s) of rejection.”

If the evidence does not overcome all rejections, the examiner must consider whether to admit the evidence and, if admitted, whether to reopen prosecution or maintain the appeal.

Tags: Appeal Brief, examiner action, new evidence, patent appeal