What is the role of a conference in the inter partes reexamination process?
After receiving responses and comments, the examiner participates in a conference as part of the inter partes reexamination process. The MPEP states:
“After the examiner receives notification of a response/comment (e.g., having the patent owner’s response to the Office action and any third party requester comments on that response), he/she will prepare for and participate in a conference in accordance with MPEP ยง 2671.03.”
This conference is an important step in ensuring the quality and consistency of the examination process before issuing the next Office action.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2600 - Optional Inter Partes Reexamination
MPEP 2671 - Examiner Action Following Response/Comments Or Expiration Of Time For Same
Patent Law
Patent Procedure