Should patent attorneys or examiners be concerned about ‘[Reserved]’ sections like MPEP 212?
Patent attorneys and examiners generally do not need to be concerned about ‘[Reserved]’ sections like MPEP 212. These sections contain no substantive information and do not affect current patent examination procedures. However, it’s good practice to stay informed about MPEP updates in case reserved sections are filled with new content in the future.
Read MoreWhen is it necessary for a patent examiner to obtain assignment information from PALM?
MPEP 303 outlines specific situations where a patent examiner needs to obtain assignment information from the Patent Application Locator and Monitoring (PALM) system: “When the assignment condition of an application is significant, such as when applications of different inventors contain conflicting claims or there is a question as to who should direct prosecution, it is…
Read MoreHow does MPEP 318 guide patent examiners on handling assignment documents?
MPEP 318 provides clear guidance to patent examiners on how to handle assignment documents. The section states: “Assignment documents submitted for recording should not be placed directly in application or patent files, but should be forwarded to Assignment Division for recording.” This instruction serves to: Remind examiners not to include assignment documents in the main…
Read MoreWhen do patent examiners need title reports?
Patent examiners typically do not require title reports for routine examination. The MPEP states: Information as to the title is not normally required by the examiner to examine an application. It is only in limited circumstances when the ownership becomes an issue and an examiner needs a title report. When ownership information is necessary, examiners…
Read MoreWhen can a patent examiner suggest hiring a patent practitioner?
A patent examiner may suggest hiring a patent practitioner under specific circumstances, as outlined in MPEP 401: “If patentable subject matter appears to be disclosed in a pro se application and it is apparent that the applicant is unfamiliar with the proper preparation and prosecution of patent applications, the examiner may suggest to the applicant…
Read More