37 CFR § 11.101 — Competence. (MPEP Coverage Index) – BlueIron IP

37 CFR § 11.101 Competence.

Source: Patent Rule (37 CFR)BlueIron Update:

This page consolidates MPEP guidance interpreting 37 CFR § 11.101, including 7 rules 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.

Summary

The Competence section ensures design patent practitioners are qualified to practice by requiring them to pass a registration exam and meet moral character standards, with additional guidance on educational qualifications.

What this section covers

  • Ensures design patent practitioners (attorneys and agents) pass the same registration exam and moral character evaluation as all other patent practitioners.
  • Requires design patent practitioners to have a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degree in relevant fields from an accredited institution.

Key obligations

  • Pass a registration exam and meet moral character standards to practice as a design patent practitioner.
  • Provide competent representation and inform clients of practice limitations.

Practice notes

  • Refer to the Office of Enrollment and Discipline for more information on registration requirements.

Related Provisions

Based on MPEP Last Modified: 10/30/2024 08:50:22