What is the purpose of the “No Second Interference” rule in patent law?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 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. The “No Second Interference” rule in patent law serves several important purposes: Preventing redundant proceedings Ensuring efficiency in the patent examination process Providing finality to interference decisions Conserving USPTO resources As stated in MPEP 2308.03(c) : “No second interference should occur between the same parties on patentably indistinct subject matter.” This rule helps maintain the integrity of the patent system by preventing parties from repeatedly contesting the same or similar inventions, thereby promoting certainty and finality in patent rights. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse No Reopening of Earlier Interference on Same Subject Matter MPEP 2308.03(c) Recommended Examiner Must Maintain Rejection Unless Overcome MPEP 2308 Required No Reopening of Non-Interference Holding MPEP 2308.03(c) Prohibited Estoppels for Repeated Interferences on Same Invention MPEP 2308.03(c) Recommended Estoppel After Judgment Disposes of Issues MPEP 2308 Prohibited Losing Party Cannot Reopen Issues Adjudicated Against Them MPEP 2308 Prohibited Estoppel After Judgment for Properly Decided Issues MPEP 2308 Prohibited Losing Party Cannot Take Inconsistent Action Post-Judgment MPEP 2308 Prohibited Adverse Judgment Requires No Further Office Action MPEP 2308 Prohibited Adverse Judgment Is Final Disposal of Claim MPEP 2308 Prohibited Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Can a party claim the same invention after losing an interference? What is the &#8220;No Second Interference&#8221; rule in patent law? What is &#8220;patentably indistinct subject matter&#8221; in the context of patent interferences? What happens if the Board determines there is no inter...