What is Form Paragraph 7.43.03 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 7.43.03 is used when allowable subject matter has been indicated, but formal requirements are still outstanding. It states:
“As allowable subject matter has been indicated, applicant’s reply must either comply with all formal requirements or specifically traverse each requirement not complied with. See 37 CFR 1.111(b) and MPEP § 707.07(a).”
The MPEP 707.07(a) notes that this form paragraph is appropriate “when changes (for example, drawing corrections or corrections to the specification) must be made prior to allowance.” This informs the applicant of the need to address remaining formal issues before the application can be allowed.