Can a claim be revived after an interference judgment?

Generally, a claim that has been subject to an adverse interference judgment cannot be revived in its current form. The MPEP 2308.01 is clear on this point: “Judgment against a claim in an interference, including any judgment on priority or patentability, finally disposes of the claim.” This finality means that the claim, as judged in…

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How does an interference judgment affect a patent claim?

An interference judgment has a significant impact on a patent claim. According to MPEP 2308.01, “Judgment against a claim in an interference, including any judgment on priority or patentability, finally disposes of the claim.” This means that once a judgment is rendered against a claim in an interference proceeding, that claim is effectively terminated and…

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Are examiners required to implement recommendations from an interference judgment?

Yes, patent examiners are required to implement recommendations from an interference judgment. The MPEP clearly states: The examiner must enter any recommended rejection, and must maintain the rejection unless the applicant by amendment or submission of new evidence overcomes the rejection to the examiner’s satisfaction. This means that if the interference judgment includes specific recommendations…

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Does an interference judgment prevent an examiner from making new rejections?

No, an interference judgment does not prevent an examiner from making new rejections. The MPEP clearly states: An interference judgment simply resolves any question of priority between the two parties to the interference. The judgment does not prevent the examiner from making a rejection in further examination in the same application or a different application.…

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