Can a patent owner file citations of prior art against their own patent?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. Yes, a patent owner can file citations of prior art against their own patent. According to MPEP 2202 : “The patent owner may file citations of prior art for entry in the patent file.” This provision allows patent owners to proactively address potential prior art that might affect the validity of their patent. By submitting such citations, patent owners can potentially strengthen their patent by addressing known prior art or preemptively responding to potential challenges. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Patent Owner Can Submit Prior Art MPEP 2202 Permitted Patent Owner Can Submit Written Statements on Claim Scope MPEP 2202 Permitted Submission of Prior Art and Patent Owner Statements Required MPEP 2202 Permitted Prior Art Citation Requirement for Patent Files MPEP 2202 Recommended Explanation of Prior Art Required for Patent File MPEP 2202 Required Explanation Required for Prior Art Submissions MPEP 2202 Required Patent Owner and Ex Parte Requester Citations Required During Reexamination MPEP 2202 Citations by Patent Owner and Third Party Requester in Inter Partes Reexamination MPEP 2202 Separate Submission of Prior Art Without Request for Reexamination MPEP 2202 Permitted No Fee for Submitting Prior Art MPEP 2202 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Can citations be submitted anonymously to the USPTO? How are citations processed during an ex parte reexamination proceeding? Is there a fee for submitting prior art citations or written statements to the USPTO? What are the limitations on written statements submitted with prior art citations? What is the purpose of citing prior art in patent files?