What are the limitations on amendments after the second Office action in patent reexamination?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 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. After the second Office action in patent reexamination, which is typically final, there are limitations on amendments. MPEP 2269 states: “Any amendment after the second Office action, which will normally be final as provided for in MPEP § 2271, must ordinarily be restricted to the rejection or to the objection or requirement made.” This means that amendments at this stage should specifically address the issues raised by the examiner in the final Office action, rather than introducing new or unrelated changes to the patent. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Amendments After Second Office Action Must Be Restricted MPEP 2269 Required Patent Owner Must Respond to Office Actions MPEP 2269 Patent Owner Must Respond to Office Action for Reconsideration MPEP 2269 Required Patent Owner May Respond Without Amendment MPEP 2269 Permitted Examiner May Make Next Office Action Final MPEP 1207.03(b) Permitted Office Action Must Include Form Paragraph 14.01 MPEP 1401 Recommended Examiner Prepares Office Action After Withdrawal MPEP 1308.01 Request for Expedited Examination of Design Applications MPEP 1002.02(c)(3) Electronic Office Action Notification for Patent Grants MPEP 1306.03 Same Prior Art for Reissue as Original MPEP 1440 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is a final action in patent reexamination? How many times can a patent be reconsidered during reexamination? Can a patent owner amend their patent during reexamination? What is required for reconsideration in a patent reexamination? No more FAQs can be generated