What is the process for handling dependent claims in ex parte reexamination?
Dependent claims in ex parte reexamination are handled with specific considerations. The MPEP 2287 provides guidance:
“If the patent owner presents a number of dependent claims to be examined, all dependent claims may be listed on the Notice of Intent to Issue Ex Parte Reexamination Certificate (NIRC) by using the claim number with the status identifier of ‘dependent’ or ‘dep.'”
This approach allows for efficient processing of multiple dependent claims. It’s important to note that each dependent claim must still be examined for patentability, but this method simplifies the documentation in the NIRC.
To learn more:
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