How is the proper Technology Center determined for a reexamination request?

The proper Technology Center (TC) for a reexamination request is determined based on the current classification of the patent being reexamined. According to MPEP 2237:

“The proper TC for reexamination is determined by the classification of the patent being reexamined.”

This means that:

• The current classification of the patent is used, not the classification at the time of issuance.
• If the patent’s classification has changed since issuance, the reexamination request should be sent to the TC that currently handles that technology area.
• The Office of Patent Legal Administration (OPLA) can assist in determining the proper TC if there’s any uncertainty.

To learn more:

• Technology Center
• reexamination request
• patent classification
• OPLA