Can third-party requesters participate in appeals during ex parte reexamination?

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.

No, third-party requesters cannot participate in appeals during ex parte reexamination. The MPEP 2273 explicitly states: “A third party requester may not appeal, and may not participate in the patent owner’s appeal.” This limitation is a key feature of ex parte reexamination proceedings, distinguishing them from inter partes reviews where third parties have more extensive participation rights.

Topics: MPEP 2200 - Citation Of Prior Art And Ex Parte Reexamination Of Patents MPEP 2273 - Appeal In Ex Parte Reexamination Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Final Rejection Reexam, Reexamination Appeals, Reexamination Order