What is the process for petitioning a denial of an ex parte reexamination request?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30

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 a request for ex parte reexamination under 35 U.S.C. 302 is denied, the requester can petition for review. According to MPEP 2248:

“The requester may seek review by a petition to the Director under § 1.181 within one month of the mailing date of the examiner’s determination refusing ex parte reexamination. Any such petition must comply with § 1.181(b).”

The Central Reexamination Unit (CRU) Director will conduct a de novo review of the examiner’s determination. If the petition is not filed within one month, the reexamination file is processed as concluded.

Topics: MPEP 2200 - Citation Of Prior Art And Ex Parte Reexamination Of Patents MPEP 2248 - Petition From Denial Of Request Filed Under 35 U.S.C. 302 Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Cru Director Review, ex parte reexamination, patent reexamination, Petition Process