Who processes requests for supplemental examination?

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.

According to MPEP 2812, requests for supplemental examination are processed by the Central Reexamination Unit (CRU) of the USPTO. The MPEP states:

“All processing of requests for supplemental examination and of other papers filed in a supplemental examination proceeding and in any resulting ex parte reexamination proceeding will be performed by the staff of the Central Reexamination Unit.”

This means that the CRU is responsible for handling all aspects of supplemental examination requests and any subsequent ex parte reexamination proceedings that may result from the supplemental examination.

Topics: MPEP 2800 - Supplemental Examination MPEP 2812 - Initial Processing Of A Request For Supplemental Examination Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Establish Ownership, Reexamination Cru, supplemental examination