What replaced the inter partes reexamination process?
While the MPEP 2611 section does not directly address this question, it’s important to note that the inter partes reexamination process was replaced by inter partes review as part of the America Invents Act (AIA). The inter partes review process is conducted by the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) and offers a more streamlined procedure for challenging patent validity.
The transition from inter partes reexamination to inter partes review is implied by the statement: “No requests for inter partes reexamination may be filed on or after September 16, 2012.” This date coincides with the implementation of various AIA provisions, including the introduction of inter partes review.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2600 - Optional Inter Partes Reexamination,
MPEP 2611 - Time For Requesting Inter Partes Reexamination,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure