What happens to rejected claims after an appeal in patent prosecution?
Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27
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.
After an appeal in patent prosecution, rejected claims may be canceled depending on the outcome. The Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP) provides guidance on this process in several sections:
- MPEP § 1214.06 – Examiner Sustained in Whole or in Part
- MPEP § 1215.03 – Proceedings After Withdrawal of Appeal
- MPEP § 1215.04 – Dismissal of Appeal
- MPEP § 1216.01 – Appeals to the Federal Circuit
These sections detail the procedures for canceling rejected claims based on various appeal outcomes and scenarios.