What is the panel review in reexamination cases?

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.

In addition to the review conducted by the CRU SPRS or TC QAS, reexamination cases undergo a panel review before issuing Office actions. MPEP 2689 states:

“In addition to the CRU SPRS/TC QAS review of the reexamination cases, a panel review is made prior to issuing Office actions as set forth in MPEP § 2671.03.“

The panel review provides an additional layer of scrutiny to ensure the quality and consistency of reexamination proceedings. For more details on the panel review process, refer to MPEP § 2671.03.