How does a priority showing differ from a priority statement in interference proceedings?
This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice.
A priority showing under 37 CFR 41.202(d)(1) is distinct from a priority statement under 37 CFR 41.204(a) in interference proceedings. The MPEP clarifies:
“A priority showing under 37 CFR 41.202(d)(1), which is presented during examination, is not the same as a priority statement under 37 CFR 41.204(a), which is filed during an interference. A priority statement is a notice of what a party intends to prove on the issue of priority during an interference. A priority showing under 37 CFR 41.202(d)(1) must, however, actually prove priority assuming that the opposing party did not oppose the showing.”
In essence, a priority showing must provide actual proof of priority, while a priority statement outlines what a party intends to prove during the interference.