What are the consequences of including offensive content in a patent application?

Including offensive content in a patent application can have significant consequences. According to MPEP 608:

• The examiner will object to the offensive language or drawings.
• The application will not be classified for publication under 35 U.S.C. 122(b).
• The examiner will not pass the application to issue until the offensive content is removed.

The MPEP states, “An application should not be classified for publication under 35 U.S.C. 122(b) and an examiner should not pass the application to issue until such language or drawings have been deleted, or questions relating to the propriety thereof fully resolved.” This policy ensures that federal government publications maintain appropriate standards of decorum and courtesy.

To learn more:

• offensive content
• patent applications
• consequences
• publication
• issuance