Can 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 to the Central Reexamination Unit at (571) 273-9900.
- EFS-Web submissions: As of July 9, 2007, the USPTO began accepting both requests for reexamination and “follow-on” papers via the EFS-Web system.
The MPEP notes: The Office has updated the Legal Framework for EFS-Web (available at www.uspto.gov/patents-application-process/filing-online/legal-framework-efs-web) to set forth that requests for reexamination, and reexamination “follow-on” papers are permitted to be submitted using EFS-Web.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2600 - Optional Inter Partes Reexamination,
MPEP 2624 - Correspondence,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure