How should examiners explain reasons for distinctness or independence in restriction requirements?
Examiners must provide clear and concise reasons for holding that inventions are either independent or distinct when issuing a restriction requirement. The MPEP provides guidance on how to explain these reasons: As stated in MPEP 808.01: “The particular reasons relied on by the examiner for holding that the inventions as claimed are either independent or…
Read MoreHow should examiners explain rejections in patent applications?
How should examiners explain rejections in patent applications? According to MPEP 706, examiners must provide clear explanations for rejections in patent applications. The MPEP states: The goal of examination is to clearly articulate any rejection early in the prosecution process so that the applicant has the opportunity to provide evidence of patentability and otherwise reply…
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