What is the purpose of interviews in patent prosecution?

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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. Interviews play a crucial role in patent prosecution by: Improving mutual understanding of specific issues in an application Bridging the gap between examiners and applicants on substantive matters Advancing prosecution and identifying patentable subject matter As stated in MPEP 713 : “Discussions between an applicant and an examiner are often indispensable to advance the prosecution of a patent application.” This underscores the importance of interviews in the patent examination process. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Interviews to Advance Patent Prosecution MPEP 713 Interviews Help Advance Patent Prosecution and Identify Patentable Subject Matter MPEP 713 Interview to Advance Patent Prosecution Recommended MPEP 713 Recommended Summary of Interview Where No Electronic Record Exists MPEP 713 Required Interview to Bridge Examiner-Applicant Gap MPEP 713 Permitted Interviews to Clarify Application Issues Recommended MPEP 713 Recommended Positions Presented During Interviews Should Be Advanced with Decorum and Courtesy MPEP 713 Recommended Interviews Must Clarify Application Issues MPEP 713 Recommended Interview Time Must Be Used Efficiently MPEP 713 Recommended Interview Time Must Be Managed Efficiently MPEP 713 Recommended Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Can multiple interviews be conducted after a final rejection? What does &#8216;No Inter Partes Questions Discussed Ex Parte&#8217; mean in patent examination? What should be discussed in a patent examination interview? What precautions should examiners take before an interview regarding other patent cases? How should patent examiners prepare for interviews?