What is the time limit for a patent owner to respond to an Office action in an inter partes 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.

The patent owner is typically given a period of two months to respond to an Office action in an inter partes reexamination. As stated in the MPEP, “The patent owner will normally be given a period of two months to respond to an Office action.” It’s important to note that extensions of time are limited in reexamination proceedings and can only be obtained in accordance with 37 CFR 1.956.

Topics: MPEP 2600 - Optional Inter Partes Reexamination MPEP 2666 - Patent Owner Response To Office Action Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: inter partes reexamination, office action response, patent owner, time limit