What is a statutory declaration and how does it relate to patent applications?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 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. A statutory declaration is an alternative to a traditional oath or declaration in patent applications. According to MPEP 602 , “ Office personnel are authorized to accept a statutory declaration under 28 U.S.C. 1746 filed in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in lieu of an ‘oath’ or declaration under 35 U.S.C. 25 and 37 CFR 1.68, provided the statutory declaration otherwise complies with the requirements of law. ” This allows applicants to submit a written statement under penalty of perjury, which can be executed within or outside the United States, without the need for a notary or other official to administer an oath. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Statutory Declaration for Patent Office MPEP 602 Declaration In Lieu of Oath Required MPEP 602 Required Original Oath or Declaration Required If Authenticity Questioned MPEP 602 Permitted Original Oath or Declaration Required for Authenticity MPEP 602 Recommended New Oath Or Declaration Needed When Administered By Attorney In Invalid Jurisdiction MPEP 602 Recommended Requirement for Declaration Instead of Oath MPEP 602 Permitted Military Personnel Can Act as Notaries MPEP 602 Requirement for Unsworn Declarations Outside U.S. MPEP 602 Written Declaration Requirement for Patent Documents MPEP 602 Permitted Oath May Be Administered By Authorized Person MPEP 602 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What are the signature requirements for inventor&#8217;s oaths or declarations? What are the requirements for inventor signatures on patent applications? What residence information is required for inventors in patent applications? What are the requirements for listing an inventor&#8217;s residence on...