What is the role of Technology Center Directors in addressing new court or PTAB decisions?

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.

Technology Center (TC) Directors play a crucial role in addressing new court or Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) decisions that may affect USPTO policy or practice. According to MPEP 1721:

“When the TC Director believes that guidance to the Corps is warranted as a result of a decision, the TC Director should consult with the Deputy Commissioner for Patents who oversees the Office of Petitions and provide a draft of the guidance that is recommended as appropriate under the circumstances.”

This process ensures that potential impacts of court or PTAB decisions are carefully considered and appropriate guidance is developed for patent examiners. TC Directors act as a bridge between the examination corps and higher-level USPTO officials in this process.