What happens if all claims are canceled in an ex parte reexamination?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29

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.

If all claims are canceled in an ex parte reexamination, the proceeding concludes with a Notice of Intent to Issue Ex Parte Reexamination Certificate (NIRC). The MPEP states:

“If all claims are canceled in an ex parte reexamination proceeding, a NIRC will still be issued.” (MPEP 2287)

This means that even without any remaining claims, the USPTO will formally conclude the reexamination process by issuing a certificate. The certificate will indicate that all claims have been canceled.

Topics: MPEP 2200 - Citation Of Prior Art And Ex Parte Reexamination Of Patents MPEP 2287 - Conclusion Of Ex Parte Reexamination Proceeding Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Nirc, Reexam Certificate, Reexamination Appeals, Reexamination Cru, Reexamination Order