What are the requirements for a “streamlined” ex parte reexamination request?

A “streamlined” ex parte reexamination request under 37 CFR 1.20(c)(1) must meet the following requirements:

• Have forty (40) or fewer pages
• Use double-spaced or one-and-a-half spaced lines
• Use a non-script type font such as Arial, Times New Roman, or Courier
• Use a font size no smaller than 12 point
• Have margins that conform to the requirements of § 1.52(a)(1)(ii)
• Have sufficient clarity and contrast for direct reproduction and electronic capture

The MPEP states: “Filing a request that meets the requirements of 37 CFR 1.20(c)(1) does not impact the subsequent reexamination process, including the order in which the case is taken up for action by the examiner.” This means that streamlined requests are not prioritized in the examination process.

To learn more:

• ex parte reexamination
• streamlined request
• patent reexamination
• USPTO requirements