What are the requirements for making a second or subsequent action final in patent examination?

According to MPEP 706.07, a second or any subsequent action on the merits can be made final, except where the examiner introduces a new ground of rejection that is neither necessitated by applicant’s amendment of the claims nor based on information submitted in an information disclosure statement filed during the period set forth in 37…

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Can an applicant request reconsideration after final rejection without amending claims?

Yes, an applicant can request reconsideration after final rejection without amending claims. The MPEP 714.12 states: “An amendment after final rejection … may be made with or without request for reconsideration.” This means that an applicant can submit arguments for reconsideration without necessarily proposing amendments to the claims. Such a request might involve pointing out…

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What is the purpose of withdrawing the finality of a rejection?

The purpose of withdrawing the finality of a rejection is to address situations where a final rejection may have been premature or inappropriate. This process allows for continued examination and gives the applicant an opportunity to respond to the examiner’s rejections without the limitations imposed by a final Office action. As indicated in MPEP 706.07(d):…

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What is the purpose of a ‘closing prosecution’ action in patent examination?

A ‘closing prosecution’ action in patent examination serves to finalize the examination process and prepare the application for potential appeal or abandonment. The MPEP 714.12 mentions: “The examiner should treat such a reply under 37 CFR 1.116 in the same manner as any amendment after final rejection … with a view toward closing prosecution.” The…

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How are replies after final processed and considered by the USPTO?

The USPTO has specific guidelines for processing and considering replies after a final rejection, as outlined in MPEP 706.07(f): “Replies after final should be processed and considered promptly by all Office personnel.” This emphasizes the importance of timely handling of these responses. “Replies after final should not be considered by the examiner unless they are…

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How does the USPTO handle prior art exceptions after final rejection?

The USPTO gives special consideration to submissions concerning prior art exceptions even after a final rejection. As stated in MPEP 714.12: Applicant’s submissions concerning the prior art exception under 35 U.S.C. 102(b)(2)(C) or prior art disqualification under pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 103(c) are entitled to being considered even after a final rejection has been made. If…

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What is the difference between a prima facie rejection and a final rejection in patent examination?

What is the difference between a prima facie rejection and a final rejection in patent examination? In patent examination, there are two main types of rejections: Prima facie rejection: This is an initial rejection based on the examiner’s first review of the application. The MPEP states, To make a prima facie case of unpatentability, the…

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