What role do Technology Center Directors play in interference proceedings?

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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. Technology Center Directors are involved in several aspects of interference proceedings. According to MPEP 1003 , their responsibilities include: Handling interferences between applications neither of which is in condition for allowance Reviewing letters suggesting claims for purposes of interference Overseeing proposed interferences between applications with significantly different effective filing dates The MPEP specifically states: “Interferences between applications neither of which is in condition for allowance” are submitted to Technology Center Directors. Additionally, “Proposed interferences between applications whose effective filing dates differ by more than 6 months” are also handled by them. For more details on interference proceedings, refer to MPEP 2300 . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Interference Between Applications with Differing Effective Dates MPEP 1003 Letters Must Suggest Claims for Interference MPEP 1003 Letters Suggesting Interference Claims Must Be Withdrawn MPEP 1003 Examiner Can Temporarily Pause Patent Application Review MPEP 1003 Request for Patentability Report Required MPEP 1003 Unusual Practice Questions Must Be Referred to Directors MPEP 1003 Permitted Requirement for Second Suspension of Action on Examiner’s Initiative MPEP 1003 Examiner Can Request Withdrawal of Application from Issue MPEP 1003 Requirement for Compelling Reason and Unpatentability MPEP 1003 Claim Prima Facie Unpatentable Over Prior Art MPEP 1003 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How are requests for certificates of correction handled by Technology Center Directors? What matters are typically submitted to Technology Center Directors? Are there ...