What is the purpose of an Examiner’s Letter or Action?

Question

Accepted Answer

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 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. An Examiner’s Letter or Action, as described in MPEP 707 , serves to communicate the examiner’s findings and decisions regarding a patent application. It includes: Information about the period set for reply Any attachments A ‘Summary of Action’ detailing the position taken on all claims Reasons for rejection or objection Useful information for judging the propriety of continuing prosecution As stated in the MPEP, In accordance with the patent statute, ‘Whenever, on examination, any claim for a patent is rejected, or any objection . . . made,’ notification of the reasons for rejection and/or objection together with such information and references as may be useful in judging the propriety of continuing the prosecution (35 U.S.C. 132) should be given. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Examiner Must Provide Reasons for Allowing Claims MPEP 707 First Office Action Must Identify Allowed Claims MPEP 707 Notification Required for Patent Claim Rejections MPEP 707 Recommended Examiner Must Provide Reasons For Allowing Claims MPEP 707 Permitted Reasons for Allowance Must Be Incorporated or Communicated Separately MPEP 707 Required First Office Action Requires Informal Patent Application Notice MPEP 707 Figures and References for Prosecution Continuation MPEP 707 Permitted Office Action Includes Disclosures and Allowable Subject Matter MPEP 707 Permitted First Office Action Summary Required MPEP 707 Permitted Examiner Must Thoroughly Study and Investigate Patent Applications MPEP 707 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the significance of 35 U.S.C. 301 in citing prior art? How should examiners address asserted advantages claimed by applicants? ...