Are oral hearings in patent reexamination appeals open to the public?

Generally, oral hearings in patent reexamination appeals are open to the public as observers. However, the appellant can request a closed hearing under certain conditions. According to MPEP 2276: “Where the appeal involves reexamination proceedings, oral hearings are open to the public as observers (subject to the admittance procedures established by the Board), unless the…

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Can the time for requesting an oral hearing be extended?

No, the time for requesting an oral hearing cannot be extended. MPEP 2680 clearly states: “The time for requesting an oral hearing may not be extended.” This means that the two-month deadline after the date of the examiner’s answer is strict and cannot be prolonged. To learn more: oral hearing deadline extension inter partes reexamination

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