What is a final action in patent reexamination?
A final action in patent reexamination is typically the second Office action issued by the examiner. MPEP 2269 refers to this:
“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.”
A final action indicates that the examiner believes the issues have been fully addressed and that the reexamination is ready to be concluded. It limits the scope of further amendments and responses from the patent owner.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2200 - Citation Of Prior Art And Ex Parte Reexamination Of Patents,
MPEP 2269 - Reconsideration,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure