Is the identity of the person filing an ex parte reexamination request confidential?
No, the identity of the person filing an ex parte reexamination request is not kept confidential. MPEP 2212 explicitly states:
“The name of the person who files the request will not be maintained in confidence.“
This means that when someone files a request for ex parte reexamination, their identity becomes part of the public record. This transparency allows all parties involved, including the patent owner, to know who initiated the reexamination process.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2200 - Citation Of Prior Art And Ex Parte Reexamination Of Patents,
MPEP 2212 - Persons Who May File A Request For Ex Parte Reexamination Under 35 U.S.C. 302,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure