This page consolidates MPEP guidance interpreting 37 CFR § 1.947, including 2 rules 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.

Summary

This section outlines the process of responding to third party comments after an applicant's reply during a non-final action in patent reexamination, emphasizing key obligations and compliance requirements under 37 CFR § 1.947.

What this section covers

• The Comments by third party requester to patent is covered, including responses following an applicant’s reply and any inter partes reexamination comments.

Key obligations

• Respond to third party comments after an applicant’s reply during a non-final action.
• Ensure the response addresses all points raised by the third party and complies with 37 CFR § 1.947.

Practice notes

• Failing to timely respond to third party comments can lead to adverse decisions in the reexamination process.

Related Provisions

• 37 CFR § 1.111
• 37 CFR § 1.113
• 37 CFR § 1.104
• 37 CFR § 41.31
• 37 CFR § 1.116

Based on MPEP Last Modified: 10/30/2024 08:50:22