How are patent interview records maintained?
The USPTO has strict requirements for maintaining records of patent interviews. According to MPEP 713:
“All discussions between the applicant/practitioner and the examiner regarding the merits of a pending application will be considered an interview and are to be made of record. This includes any and all records or communications received in connection with the interview via any communication mode.”
Interview records can be maintained in two ways:
- For electronic records: A copy of the electronic record must be made part of the application file.
- For non-electronic interviews: A summary of the interview must be made of record in the application.
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