Can informal amendments be accepted in inter partes reexamination proceedings?
No, informal amendments are not accepted in inter partes reexamination proceedings. The MPEP 2685 explicitly states: “An informal amendment by the patent owner will not be accepted, because that would be tantamount to an ex parte interview.” This policy ensures that all communications and amendments are formally submitted and properly recorded, maintaining the integrity and transparency of the inter partes reexamination process.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2600 - Optional Inter Partes Reexamination,
MPEP 2685 - No Interviews On Merits In Inter Partes Reexamination Proceedings,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure