What is Form Paragraph 23.02 used for in patent examination?

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.

Form Paragraph 23.02 is used by patent examiners to formally resume ex parte prosecution after an interference proceeding has concluded. The MPEP states: Form paragraph 23.02 may be used to resume ex parte prosecution.

The form paragraph typically includes:

• The interference number
• A statement that the interference has been terminated
• The outcome of the interference (e.g., decision favorable or unfavorable to the applicant)
• A declaration that ex parte prosecution is resumed

This form paragraph serves as an official notification in the application’s prosecution history that the interference proceeding has ended and regular examination has resumed.