How are unsigned papers handled in inter partes reexamination?
Unsigned papers in inter partes reexamination are generally denied consideration but retained in the file. According to MPEP 2667:
“Papers filed by the patent owner which are unsigned, or signed by fewer than all of the patent owners where no attorney or agent is of record or acting in representative capacity, will be denied consideration, but will be retained in the file.”
Similarly, for third party requesters:
“Papers filed by a third party requester which are unsigned or not signed by the third party requester or requester’s attorney/agent of record or attorney/agent acting in representative capacity will be denied consideration.”
This is based on 37 CFR 1.33. The retention of these papers in the file ensures a complete record of the proceedings.
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