How should USPTO personnel report time spent on reexamination activities?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 5 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. According to the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP) Section 2638 , all USPTO personnel are required to report all time spent on reexamination activities accurately. The MPEP states: “It is essential that all time expended on reexamination activities be reported accurately. Thus, all USPTO personnel should report all time spent on reexamination on their individual Time and Attendance Reports.” This means that even activities such as supervision, copying, typing, and docketing should be included in the time reports. Accurate time reporting is crucial for proper tracking and management of reexamination processes. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 5 rules Collapse Inter Partes Reexamination Not Acceptable After September 16, 2012 MPEP 2638 Inter Partes Reexamination Not Acceptable After September 16, 2012 MPEP 2638 Reexamination Requests Prohibited After September 16, 2012 MPEP 1400.01 Permitted Requirement for Proper Prior Application Reference MPEP 1130 Requirement for Proper Oath/Declaration in Continuation Reissue Applications MPEP 1414 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Why is accurate time reporting important for USPTO reexamination activities? Who is responsible for reporting time spent on reexamination activities at the USPTO? What activities should be included in USPTO personnel&#8217;s Time and Attendance Reports for reexamination? How does 35 U.S.C. 312(a) affect the determination in inter partes reexamination? What is the purpose of 37 CFR 1.927 in the reexamination process?