What is the role of a patent practitioner during an interview with the USPTO?

What is the role of a patent practitioner during an interview with the USPTO?

A patent practitioner plays a crucial role during an interview with the USPTO. According to MPEP 408, the practitioner is responsible for:

• Representing the applicant or patent owner
• Discussing the merits of the application or patent
• Providing clarifications on the invention
• Negotiating potential claim amendments
• Addressing any concerns raised by the examiner

The MPEP states: ‘Interviews must be conducted on the Office premises, such as in examiner’s offices, conference rooms or the video conference centers.’ This underscores the formal nature of these interactions and the importance of the practitioner’s role in facilitating productive discussions with the examiner.

For more information on patent examination, visit: patent examination.