ROLE OF THE USPTO EXAMINER
Read and understand the application • Search for prior art • Evaluate the specification and claim(s) • Respond by office action(s) describing findings • Hold interviews, as requested
ROLE OF THE APPLICANT
File a complete application • Disclose all known prior art • In response to examiner office actions.
After final Practice
Even if you receive a final rejection, don’t panic. If you still disagree, you may still have options:
- Request for continued examination (RCE),
- Appeal, or
- After-final response.
WITH AN INTERVIEW THERE IS A BIG POSSIBILITY TO GET A NOTICE OF ALLOWANCE.
Allowances: A notice of allowance indicates all objections and rejections have been overcome and your application is ready for issuance.