How are amendments made in patent reexamination proceedings?

Amendments in patent reexamination proceedings are made according to specific rules outlined in 37 CFR 1.530. The key points are:

  • Amendments are made by filing a paper specifying changes to the patent specification, claims, or drawings.
  • For specification changes, the entire text of added or rewritten paragraphs must be submitted with markings.
  • For claim changes, the entire text of each changed or new claim must be provided with markings.
  • Drawing changes must be submitted as a sketch for approval before final drawings are filed.

As stated in the MPEP: “ALL amendments in reexamination proceedings… must be presented in the form of a full copy of the text of each claim which is amended and each paragraph of the description which is amended.

To learn more:

Topics: MPEP 2200 - Citation Of Prior Art And Ex Parte Reexamination Of Patents, MPEP 2234 - Entry Of Amendments, Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: patent amendments, patent claims, Patent Specification