What happens when a secrecy order expires or is rescinded?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. When a secrecy order expires or is rescinded, the USPTO may reconsider the need for an interference. According to MPEP 2306 : “When a secrecy order expires or is rescinded, if the examination is otherwise completed in accordance with 37 CFR 41.102, then the need for an interference may be reconsidered.” This means that once the secrecy order is no longer in effect, and if the examination of the application is complete, the USPTO will evaluate whether an interference proceeding is necessary. This allows for the normal patent examination and potential interference processes to resume once the need for secrecy has passed. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Interference May Be Reconsidered After Secrecy Order Expiration MPEP 2306 Permitted Interference Not Suggested for Secrecy Order Cases MPEP 2306 Recommended Secrecy Order for Missile Control Circuit Transistor MPEP 2306 Interference Suggested After Secrecy Lifted MPEP 2306 Permitted Interfering Claims Between Applications Under Secrecy Orders MPEP 2306 Recommended Transistor Claim Must Be Disclosed In Commercial Context MPEP 2306 Transistor Claim for Missile Circuit Under Secrecy Order MPEP 2306 Transistor Claim Allowance Requires Issue of Application L MPEP 2306 Recommended PTAB Members Designated for Interference Proceedings Determining Priority and Patentability MPEP 1002.02(f) PTAB Handles Requests for Interference and Derivation Records MPEP 103 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What happens to patent applications under secrecy orders in interference proceedings? Can an applicant suggest an interference for an application under a secrecy order? How does the USPTO handle applications not under s...