Examiner: WALCK, BRIAN D

Analysis

Brian D. Walck has resolved 838 cases within Art Unit 1700, maintaining an allowance rate of 58.7 percent. This rate suggests a more rigorous examination environment compared to higher-granting units in Tech Center 1700. With 58.7 percent of cases reaching allowance, practitioners should be prepared for a detailed and potentially difficult prosecution cycle that requires strong evidence of patentability.

Prosecution typically reaches a conclusion in a median of 1185 days to allowance. This 1185 day timeline reflects the thorough nature of the examiner's review process. To improve the odds of success, applicants should consider the interview lift of 26.9 percent, which demonstrates that engaging the examiner directly can significantly bridge the gap toward a favorable resolution.

The 26.9 percent lift is a strong indicator that verbal communication helps resolve technical disagreements more effectively than written responses alone. Given the 58.7 percent allowance rate, an interview should be viewed as a necessary step for applications that face persistent rejections. Utilizing this strategy may help navigate the 1185 day median more effectively and secure a patent grant.