What is the Reexamination e-File and how does it differ from regular patent applications?

The Reexamination e-File is an electronic system that allows viewing of reexamination proceeding papers on the Image File Wrapper (IFW). According to MPEP 2635:

“PALM provides information for the reexamination proceeding as to the patent owner and requester, contents, status, and related Office proceedings (applications, patents and reexamination proceedings). Some of the data entry for reexamination in PALM is different from that of a regular patent application.”

Key differences include:

  • Different status codes: Reexamination proceedings generally have status codes in the “400” or “800” range
  • Specific information related to reexamination proceedings, such as requester details
  • Linkage to related Office proceedings

These differences reflect the unique nature of reexamination proceedings compared to regular patent applications.

To learn more:

Topics: MPEP 2600 - Optional Inter Partes Reexamination, MPEP 2635 - Record Systems, Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: ifw, Palm System, patent applications, Reexamination E-File, Status Codes