What is the purpose of providing a full copy of the printed patent in a 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.

Providing a full copy of the printed patent in a reexamination request serves multiple important purposes. As stated in MPEP 2219: “A full copy of the printed patent (including the front page) would be used to provide the abstract, drawings, specification, and claims of the patent for the reexamination request and the resulting reexamination proceeding.

The purposes of including a full copy are:

  • To serve as the specification for the reexamination proceeding
  • To ensure all parts of the patent are available for review
  • To provide a consistent reference point for all parties involved
  • To facilitate a comprehensive examination of the patent’s validity

By including the complete patent, including the front page, abstract, drawings, specification, and claims, the USPTO and all parties involved in the reexamination have access to the entire scope of the patented invention, ensuring a thorough and accurate review process.

Topics: MPEP 2200 - Citation Of Prior Art And Ex Parte Reexamination Of Patents MPEP 2219 - Copy Of Printed Patent Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Reexam Certificate