What are the procedural requirements for conducting an appeal conference?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. The procedural requirements for conducting an appeal conference in inter partes reexamination are outlined in MPEP 2676 , which states: “The appeal conference will be held in accordance with the procedures as set forth in MPEP § 1207.01 .” These procedures ensure consistency in the appeal conference process across different cases. The conference is arranged by the examiner through the CRU Supervisory Patent Reexamination Specialist (SPRS) or Technology Center (TC) Quality Assurance Specialist (QAS), following the guidelines established for appeal conferences. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Inter Partes Reexamination Not Acceptable After September 16, 2012 MPEP 2676 Initials Required for Appeal Participants MPEP 1207.01 Required Mandatory Appeal Conference for Acceptable Briefs MPEP 1207.01 Recommended Examiners and SPE Must Attend Appeal Conferences MPEP 1207.01 Recommended Examiner Must Indicate Appeal Conference Held MPEP 1207.01 List Appeal Conferees on Examiner's Answer MPEP 1207.01 Recommended Consider Dropping Cumulative Rejections MPEP 1207.01 Recommended Weigh Arguments Before Preparing Examiner's Answer MPEP 1207.01 Recommended Examiner Must Identify Conferees in Answer MPEP 1207.01 Permitted Examiner Must Provide Written Response to Appeal Brief MPEP 1207 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is an appeal conference in inter partes reexamination? What is the role of the Central Reexamination Unit (CRU) in the appeal process? When does an examiner decide to hold an appeal conference? What happens if an examiner decides not to proceed with an appeal? How does an examiner prepare for an appeal conference?