What factors are considered for making a requirement for information prior to the first action on the merits?

According to MPEP 704.11(b), several factors are considered when determining the appropriateness of a separate requirement for information prior to the first action on the merits. These include: Whether the claimed subject matter is in a newly established art area without a well-developed prior art resource pool Whether the applicant submitted an Information Disclosure Statement…

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Can an examiner require information about prior art cited in an information disclosure statement (IDS)?

Can an examiner require information about prior art cited in an information disclosure statement (IDS)? Yes, an examiner can require information about prior art cited in an information disclosure statement (IDS). The MPEP 704.10 provides specific guidance on this matter: Information reasonably necessary for finding prior art may include explanations of how the inventive features…

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How should applicants cite information from foreign language documents?

When citing information from foreign language documents, applicants should provide an English language equivalent or translation. MPEP 707.05(b) provides guidance on this matter: ‘Where an applicant for patent wishes to cite and rely on a different form of the English language translation of a foreign language document in the record of the application (see MPEP…

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How does the Transitional After-Final Practice affect the treatment of Information Disclosure Statements (IDS)?

The Transitional After-Final Practice affects how Information Disclosure Statements (IDS) are treated. According to MPEP 706.07(g): In view of the fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.17(r), any (IDS) previously refused consideration in the application because of applicant’s failure to comply with 37 CFR 1.97(c) or (d) will be treated as though it has been…

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What is the significance of an examiner initialing a PTO/SB/08 form?

When an examiner initials a PTO/SB/08 form, also known as an Information Disclosure Statement (IDS), it has significant implications for the patent examination process. According to MPEP 707.05(d): “…unless applicant has listed the reference on a form PTO/SB/08 that has been initialed by the examiner.” The examiner’s initials on a PTO/SB/08 form indicate that they…

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Can a petition to expunge be filed for information submitted in an Information Disclosure Statement (IDS)?

Can a petition to expunge be filed for information submitted in an Information Disclosure Statement (IDS)? Yes, a petition to expunge can be filed for information submitted in an Information Disclosure Statement (IDS). However, the MPEP provides specific guidance on this matter: “A petition to expunge information unintentionally submitted in an application (e.g., in an…

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