MPEP 700 primarily covers what subject?

MPEP 700 primarily covers the examination process of patent applications. This section outlines the procedures and guidelines that patent examiners follow when evaluating new applications submitted to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). It details aspects such as the criteria for assessing patentability, including novelty, non-obviousness, and usefulness, as well as the formal aspects of how an application should be examined.

Understanding the examination process is crucial for patent applicants and their legal representatives, as it sheds light on what examiners look for and how they make their determinations. It also includes information on office actions, the requirement for a patentee to respond to rejections, and timelines for these responses. Grasping this material is essential for navigating the complexities of obtaining a patent successfully.