What are the restrictions on USPTO employees regarding patent applications?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 Rules5 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. USPTO employees are subject to specific restrictions regarding patent applications:…

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What conflict-of-interest laws apply to USPTO employees regarding patent matters?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 Rules5 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. USPTO employees are subject to various conflict-of-interest laws and regulations…

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Can USPTO employees communicate with a suspended or excluded patent practitioner about an application?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 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. In most cases, no. USPTO employees are prohibited from communicating, either…

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Can USPTO employees apply for patents while employed?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 3 Rules5 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. No, USPTO employees cannot apply for patents while employed. According…

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