How does the USPTO handle correspondence with patent owners during inter partes reexamination?
The USPTO has specific procedures for handling correspondence with patent owners during inter partes reexamination. According to the MPEP: “Communications from the Office to the patent owner will be directed to the correspondence address for the patent being reexamined. See 37 CFR 1.33(c).” This means that the USPTO will send all communications to the address…
Read MoreCan I submit inter partes reexamination requests or documents via fax or EFS-Web?
The rules for submitting inter partes reexamination documents vary depending on the type of document: Requests for inter partes reexamination: Cannot be sent by facsimile transmission (FAX). As stated in the MPEP, A request for inter partes reexamination may not be sent by facsimile transmission (FAX). See 37 CFR 1.6(d)(5). Subsequent correspondence: May be FAXed…
Read MoreWhat information should be included in correspondence after filing an inter partes reexamination request?
After filing a request for inter partes reexamination, subsequent correspondence should include specific identifying information. The MPEP states: “After the filing of the request for inter partes reexamination, any letters sent to the Office relating to the reexamination proceeding should identify the proceeding by the number of the patent undergoing reexamination, the reexamination request control…
Read MoreCan I use certificate of mailing and transmission procedures for inter partes reexamination documents?
The use of certificate of mailing and transmission procedures (37 CFR 1.8) is allowed for most documents in an inter partes reexamination proceeding, with some important exceptions. The MPEP states: “The certificate of mailing and transmission procedures (37 CFR 1.8) may be used to file any paper in an inter partes reexamination proceeding, except for…
Read MoreHow should I address correspondence for inter partes reexamination?
For inter partes reexamination correspondence sent via U.S. Postal Service Mail, address it to: Mail Stop “Inter Partes Reexam”Attn: Central Reexamination UnitCommissioner for PatentsP.O. Box 1450Alexandria, VA 22313-1450 For hand-carried or delivery service correspondence, address it to: Customer Service WindowRandolph Building401 Dulany StreetAlexandria, VA 22314 The MPEP advises: It is strongly recommended that the Mail…
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