What is the role of the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) in ex parte reexamination?
The Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) plays a crucial role in the initial stages of ex parte reexamination. According to MPEP 2226:
“The opening of all mail marked “Mail Stop Ex Parte Reexam,” and all initial clerical processing of requests for reexamination, will be performed in the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP).”
OPAP is responsible for:
- Opening mail related to ex parte reexamination requests
- Performing initial clerical processing of these requests
- Preparing the requests for further examination by patent examiners
This initial processing by OPAP ensures that ex parte reexamination requests are properly handled and organized before they are forwarded for substantive review.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2200 - Citation Of Prior Art And Ex Parte Reexamination Of Patents,
MPEP 2226 - Initial Processing Of Request For Ex Parte Reexamination Filed Under 35 U.S.C. 302,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure