What is the effect of an interference judgment on corresponding claims?
Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29
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.
An interference judgment has a direct and binding effect on claims that correspond to the count of the interference. As stated in MPEP 2308.01:
“The claims of an application or patent which correspond to the count or counts of an interference will be disposed of in accordance with the judgment in the interference.”
This means:
- If a party wins the interference, their corresponding claims may be allowed.
- If a party loses the interference, their corresponding claims will typically be rejected or canceled.
- The judgment is binding and cannot be overcome by amending the lost claims.
Topics:
MPEP 2300 - Interference And Derivation Proceedings
MPEP 2308.01 - Final Disposal Of Claims
Patent Law
Patent Procedure