What is the purpose of a panel review conference in ex parte reexamination?

Question

Accepted Answer

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. A panel review conference in ex parte reexamination serves several important purposes: To discuss the issuance of the final Office action To ensure the quality and consistency of the final rejection To provide additional perspectives on the examiner’s decision To confirm or revise the examiner’s preliminary decision to reject and/or allow claims MPEP § 2271 states: “After an examiner has determined that the reexamination proceeding is ready for the final Office action, the examiner will set up a panel review conference, as per MPEP § 2271.01, to discuss the issuance of the action.” This conference helps ensure that the final action is thorough, well-supported, and ready for issuance. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Panel Review Conference for Final Reexamination Action MPEP 2271 Criteria for Final Rejection in Ex Parte Reexamination Analogous to Application MPEP 2271 Final Office Action Must Be Signed by Primary Examiner MPEP 2271 Required Second Office Action Generally Final In Reexamination MPEP 2271 Primary Examiner Must Sign Final Office Action MPEP 2271 Required Conferee Initials Required for Final Action MPEP 2271 Required Examiner May Use New Prior Art Without Amendment MPEP 2271 Permitted Final Rejection Must Clearly Develop Grounds of Rejection MPEP 2271 Required Identification of Substantial New Questions Raised by Cited Prior Art in Reexamination MPEP 2271 First Office Action Must Consider All Submissions MPEP 2271 Recommended Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the process for issuing a final action in an ex parte reexamination? How does the patent owner respond to a final action in ex parte reexamination? What are the criteria...