What is a threshold issue in a patent interference?

A threshold issue in a patent interference is a critical concept that can potentially end the proceeding early. The MPEP 2301.02 defines it as follows: “Threshold issue means an issue that, if resolved in favor of the movant, would deprive the opponent of standing in the interference. Threshold issues may include: (1) No interference-in-fact, and…

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Can a third-party requester comment on a patent owner’s response to a new ground of rejection?

Yes, a third-party requester can comment on a patent owner’s response to a new ground of rejection issued by the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) in an inter partes reexamination. According to MPEP 2681: Where the owner has filed a response requesting reopening of prosecution under paragraph (b)(1) of this section, any requester, within…

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What regulations govern the conduct of derivation proceedings?

The conduct of derivation proceedings is governed by regulations prescribed by the Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). According to MPEP 2310.01, which cites 35 U.S.C. 135(b): “The Director shall prescribe regulations setting forth standards for the conduct of derivation proceedings, including requiring parties to provide sufficient evidence to prove and…

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What is the purpose of a derivation proceeding?

The purpose of a derivation proceeding is twofold, as outlined in MPEP 2310: “A derivation proceeding is a trial proceeding under 35 U.S.C. 135 conducted at the Board to determine whether (i) an inventor named in an earlier application derived the claimed invention from an inventor named in the petitioner’s application, and (ii) the earlier…

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What happens when the PTAB issues a new ground of rejection in an inter partes reexamination?

When the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) issues a new ground of rejection in an inter partes reexamination, it triggers specific procedures outlined in MPEP 2681: The decision is considered non-final for judicial review. The patent owner has one month to choose one of two options: Reopen prosecution by filing a response with amendments…

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