Who is responsible for updating the Index of Claims?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10

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.

The patent examiner is responsible for updating the Index of Claims throughout the examination process. The MPEP 719.04 states that A space is provided above each adjacent column for completion by the examiner to indicate the date of each Office action together with the resulting status of each claim. This indicates that it is the examiner’s duty to keep the Index of Claims current with each Office action, ensuring an accurate record of claim status and prosecution history.

Tags: index of claims, office action