What activities should be included in USPTO personnel’s Time and Attendance Reports for reexamination?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30

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.

According to MPEP 2638, USPTO personnel should include all activities related to reexamination in their Time and Attendance Reports. The section specifically states:

“Even activities such as supervision, copying, typing, and docketing should be included.”

This means that in addition to direct examination work, administrative and support tasks related to reexamination should also be reported. This comprehensive approach ensures accurate tracking of all resources devoted to the reexamination process.

Topics: MPEP 2600 - Optional Inter Partes Reexamination MPEP 2638 - Time Reporting Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Administrative Tasks, Reexamination Activities, Time Reporting, USPTO