On March 31, 2016, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) unveiled its new rules for post-grant proceedings before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB), which largely adopt the rules proposed in August 2015. Beginning on or about May 1, 2016, patent owners will be permitted on the front end (pre-institution) to file a preliminary response introducing newly created expert declarations or evidence to rebut a petitioner’s case — an opportunity that will affect counsel, patent owners, and petitioners alike.

Join Foley Partners Stephen B. Maebius and Linda E.B. Hansen as they discuss how these important changes — and the one surprise among the new rules — will impact the current state of post-grant proceedings. Plus, get practical tips for preparing for a proceeding, filing a quality preliminary response, and preventing institution.