How are reexamination requests initially assigned?

Reexamination requests are typically assigned to a Central Reexamination Unit (CRU) art unit that examines the technology in which the patent to be reexamined is currently classified. As stated in the MPEP:

A reexamination request is normally assigned to a Central Reexamination Unit (CRU) art unit which examines the technology (Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical, etc.) in which the patent to be reexamined is currently classified as an original.

This initial assignment ensures that the reexamination is handled by examiners familiar with the relevant technology.

To learn more:

• reexamination
• CRU
• art unit
• patent classification