What is the role of the Central Reexamination Unit (CRU) in concluded reexamination proceedings?

The Central Reexamination Unit (CRU) plays a crucial role in handling concluded reexamination proceedings, as outlined in MPEP 2694. The CRU’s responsibilities include:

1. Processing files for denied or vacated reexaminations to provide partial refunds.
2. Assigning appropriate status codes to reexamination files (e.g., 820 for denied or terminated, 822 for vacated).
3. Reviewing files for reexamination proceedings concluded with a certificate.
4. Mailing the Notice of Intent to Issue Reexamination Certificate (NIRC).
5. Forwarding files to the Office of Data Management when appropriate.

The MPEP states: “The CRU will process the file to provide the partial refund set forth in 37 CFR 1.26(c)” for denied or vacated reexaminations, and “A reexamination proceeding that is to be concluded in this manner should be processed as set forth in MPEP § 2687 and then forwarded to the CRU for review, mailing of the NIRC, and forwarding the file to the Office of Data Management.” for proceedings concluded with a certificate.

To learn more:

• Central Reexamination Unit
• CRU
• reexamination proceedings
• NIRC
• Office of Data Management