How are withdrawn rejections handled in inter partes reexamination?

The handling of withdrawn rejections in inter partes reexamination depends on the specific circumstances. According to MPEP 2671.01: When an examiner withdraws a rejection they originally initiated: The withdrawal should be clearly stated as a decision favorable to patentability. The third party requester may propose the withdrawn rejection in their next set of comments. When…

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What is the difference in USPTO treatment of defective sequence listings for applications filed before and after January 1, 2022?

The USPTO’s treatment of defective sequence listings differs significantly for applications filed before and after January 1, 2022. MPEP 2422.07 outlines these differences: For applications filed before January 1, 2022: “Applications filed before January 1, 2022, that are otherwise complete, but that contain defective sequence listings, will be treated as incomplete applications under 35 U.S.C.…

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How does the USPTO handle requests for reconsideration of patent term adjustment?

The USPTO handles requests for reconsideration of patent term adjustment through a manual redetermination process. As stated in the MPEP, “The Office will conduct a manual redetermination of patent term adjustment in response to a request for reconsideration of the patent term adjustment.” This process may result in: The requested amount of patent term adjustment…

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How does the USPTO provide notice for reexamination requests under 35 U.S.C. 302?

The USPTO provides notice for reexamination requests filed under 35 U.S.C. 302 through publication in the Official Gazette. This is particularly important when direct communication with the patent owner is not possible. MPEP 2230 states: “The publication in the Official Gazette of (A) the notice of the filing of a request for reexamination filed under…

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