What types of patent actions require a primary examiner’s signature?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 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. Several types of patent actions require the signature of a primary examiner, even when an examiner has partial signatory authority. According to MPEP 1005 , these actions include: Allowances (MPEP § 1302.13) Examiner’s amendments (MPEP § 1302.04) Final rejections (MPEP §§ 706.07 and 803.01) Withdrawal of final rejection (MPEP §§ 706.07(d) and 706.07(e)) Examiner’s answers on appeal (MPEP § 1207) Actions reopening prosecution (MPEP § 1214.07) Rejection of previously allowed claim (MPEP § 706.04) This requirement ensures that these critical actions are reviewed by a more experienced examiner before being issued. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Rejection of Previously Allowed Claim MPEP 1005 Amendments to Partial Signatory Authority MPEP 1005 Withdrawal of Final Rejection Is Permitted MPEP 1005 Final Rejection Requirements MPEP 1005 Amendments After Final Rejection Must Be Addressed MPEP 1005 Examiner Responses on Appeal Required MPEP 1005 Requirement for Reopening Prosecution After Allowance MPEP 1005 Quayle Actions Required for Signatory Authority Review MPEP 1005 Examiner with Partial Signatory Authority May Sign Non-Final Restriction Actions MPEP 803.01 Permitted Allowance Quality Review Requirement MPEP 1005 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What are the special considerations for actions based on affidavit or declaration evidence in patent examination? What are the exceptions to partial signatory authority for patent examiners? How are actions on amendments after final rejection handled in patent examination? What is the process for handling examiner&#8217;s answers on appeal in patent cases? How are requests for withdrawal from issue handled...