How should examiners handle interview requests from multiple attorneys or agents?
When handling interview requests from multiple attorneys or agents, examiners should follow these guidelines:
- Generally, only one interview is granted per application.
- If multiple practitioners request interviews, coordinate with the practitioner of record.
- Additional interviews may be granted at the examiner’s discretion.
The MPEP 408 states: ‘An interview should normally be conducted with the attorney or agent of record in an application.’ It further advises: ‘If more than one attorney or agent request an interview in an application, it is the responsibility of the attorney or agent of record to resolve any conflict.’
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For more information on practitioner of record, visit: practitioner of record.
Topics:
MPEP 400 - Representative of Applicant or Owner,
MPEP 408 - Interviews With Patent Practitioner of Record,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure