Can the USPTO initiate ex parte reexamination on its own?

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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, the USPTO can initiate ex parte reexamination on its own. According to MPEP 2212 : “ It is also possible for the Director of the Office to initiate reexamination on the Director’s own initiative under 37 CFR 1.520. “ This means that the Director of the USPTO has the authority to start an ex parte reexamination process without a request from an external party. This provision allows the USPTO to review patents when it deems necessary, even if no third party has requested a reexamination. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Any Person Can File Request for Ex Parte Reexamination Unless Estopped MPEP 2212 Prohibited Who Can Request Ex Parte Reexamination of a Patent MPEP 2212 Patent Owner Can Request Ex Parte Reexamination Limited to Prior Art MPEP 2212 Permitted Any Person May Seek Patent Reexamination Under 35 U.S.C. 302 MPEP 2212 Requestor’s Name Not Kept Confidential During Ex Parte Reexamination MPEP 2212 Patent Owner Estoppel Bars Ex Parte Reexamination Request MPEP 2212 Corporations and Governmental Entities Can File for Ex Parte Reexamination MPEP 2212 Patent Owner Can File Reissue Application for Broader Examination MPEP 2212 Permitted Request for Ex Parte Reexamination Allowed at Any Time During Patent Enforceability MPEP 2212 Prohibited Certification Required for Ex Parte Reexamination MPEP 2214 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Is the identity of the person filing an ex parte reexamination request confidential? Can a patent owner request ex parte reexamination? Are there any restrictions on who can file for ex parte reexamination? What types of persons typically file ex parte reexamination requests? Who can file a request for ex parte re...