Can a third party requester petition to merge a reexamination proceeding with a reissue application?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30

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.

A third party requester does not have the right to petition for the merger of a reexamination proceeding with a reissue application. The MPEP clearly states:

The third party requester does not have a right to file a petition under 37 CFR 1.182 to merge a reexamination proceeding and a reissue application examination, since a reexamination third party requester does not have any standing to request relief with respect to a reissue application, to which requester cannot be a party.

However, the third party requester can:

  • File a notification of concurrent proceedings under MPEP § 2282
  • File a petition under 37 CFR 1.182 to stay the reexamination proceeding that it requested

After being notified of a concurrent reissue application, the Office of Patent Legal Administration (OPLA) will consider the merger and suspension options sua sponte.

Topics: MPEP 2200 - Citation Of Prior Art And Ex Parte Reexamination Of Patents MPEP 2285 - Copending Ex Parte Reexamination And Reissue Proceedings Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: concurrent proceedings, petition rights, Third Party Requester