What is the Pre-Appeal Brief Conference Pilot Program?
The Pre-Appeal Brief Conference Pilot Program is an initiative by the USPTO that allows applicants to request a review of the application prior to filing a full appeal brief. This program has specific rules regarding interviews:
“As indicated in the notice “Pre-Appeal Brief Conference Pilot Program,” 1296 OG 76 (July 12, 2005), no interviews will be granted from the filing of a request for pre-appeal review through issuance of a decision on the request.”
This means that once an applicant files a request for a pre-appeal review, interviews are not permitted until after the USPTO issues a decision on that request. This policy ensures that the pre-appeal review process remains focused and efficient.
For more details on this program, you can refer to MPEP § 1204.02.
To learn more: