Are micro entity fee reductions available in inter partes reexamination proceedings?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 7 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. Micro entity fee reductions are available in inter partes reexamination proceedings, but with specific limitations: For patent owners: Micro entity reductions are available for certain fees. For third party requesters: Micro entity reductions are not available. As stated in the MPEP: Micro entity reductions are available to patent owners only. Specifically, micro entity and small entity reductions under 35 U.S.C. 41(h)(1) are available to the patent owner for extension of time fees, appeal fees, brief fees, oral hearing fees, excess claims fees, and petition fees. It’s important to note that while third party requesters can benefit from small entity reductions for certain fees, they cannot claim micro entity status. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 7 rules Collapse Inter Partes Reexamination Not Acceptable After September 16, 2012 MPEP 2634 Inter Partes Reexamination Not Acceptable After September 16, 2012 MPEP 2634 Payment Methods for Third Party Submissions MPEP 1134.01 Director May Set Pay for Patent and Trademark Judges MPEP 1001 Required Director May Set Pay for Patent and Trademark Judges Not Exceeding Level III Executive Schedule MPEP 1001 Permitted Petitions to Change Entity Status Including Fee Payment MPEP 1002.02(b) Third Party May Resubmit Corrected Submission Within Statutory Time Period MPEP 1134.01 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How are fees processed in an inter partes reexamination proceeding? What are the fee requirements in merged reexamination proceedings? What fees are required in an inter partes reexamination proceeding? How does 35 U.S.C. 312(a) affect the determination in inter partes reexamination? What is the purpose of 37 CFR...