What petitions are decided by the Director of the Central Reexamination Unit (CRU)?
Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27
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.
The Director of the Central Reexamination Unit (CRU) decides on several types of petitions related to ex parte and inter partes reexamination proceedings. According to MPEP 1002.02(c)(4), these include:
- Petitions for extension of time in ex parte and inter partes reexamination proceedings, except those related to court actions
- Petitions under 37 CFR 1.182 and 1.183 in reexamination proceedings
- Petitions to accept late papers in reexamination proceedings where a reexamination certificate has not been issued
The Director of the CRU has the authority to decide these petitions to ensure efficient handling of reexamination-related matters.