Are interviews permitted in merged reissue and inter partes reexamination proceedings?
No, interviews discussing the merits of the case are not permitted in merged reissue and inter partes reexamination proceedings. The MPEP states: “Pursuant to 37 CFR 1.955, an interview which discusses the merits of a proceeding is not permitted in an inter partes reexamination proceeding. Thus, in a merged proceeding of an inter partes reexamination…
Read MoreCan USPTO employees communicate with a suspended or excluded patent practitioner about an application?
In most cases, no. USPTO employees are prohibited from communicating, either orally or in writing, with a suspended or excluded patent attorney or agent regarding a patent application. The MPEP states: USPTO employees are forbidden to hold either oral or written communication with an attorney or agent who has been suspended or excluded from practice…
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