How many times can a patent be reconsidered during reexamination?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29 10 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. During patent reexamination, a patent can be reconsidered multiple times. MPEP 2269 indicates: “The patent owner may respond to such Office action with or without amendment and the patent under reexamination will be reconsidered, and so on repeatedly unless the examiner has indicated that the action is final.” This suggests that the reconsideration process can continue iteratively until the examiner issues a final action. However, practical limitations and the specifics of each case may influence the number of reconsiderations. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Patent Owner May Respond Without Amendment MPEP 2269 Permitted Patent Owner Must Respond to Office Action for Reconsideration MPEP 2269 Required Patent Owner Must Respond to Office Actions MPEP 2269 Amendments After Second Office Action Must Be Restricted MPEP 2269 Required Examiner May Make Next Office Action Final MPEP 1207.03(b) Permitted Request for Expedited Examination of Design Applications MPEP 1002.02(c)(3) Electronic Office Action Notification for Patent Grants MPEP 1306.03 Examiner Prepares Office Action After Withdrawal MPEP 1308.01 Office Action Must Include Form Paragraph 14.01 MPEP 1401 Recommended Same Prior Art for Reissue as Original MPEP 1440 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is a final action in patent reexamination? Can a patent owner amend their patent during reexamination? What are the limitations on amendments after the second Office action in patent reexamination? What is required for reconsideration in a patent reexamination? No more FAQs can be generated