How are telephone calls recorded in inter partes reexamination proceedings?

When the USPTO makes a telephone call during an inter partes reexamination proceeding, it must be properly documented. The MPEP 2685 states: “If the party is reached by telephone and the matter is resolved, then the next Office communication as may be appropriate (e.g., Office action, NIRC) should make the telephone call of record. Any statement of the telephone call in the next communication must provide that ‘the content of the telephone call was limited solely to’ the non-merits matter discussed, and ‘nothing else was discussed.’” These calls are not recorded on an interview summary record form, ensuring a clear distinction from substantive interviews.

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• inter partes reexamination
• USPTO telephone calls
• patent law
• procedural matters