Are there restrictions on communicating with unregistered, suspended, or excluded attorneys regarding 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. Yes, there are strict restrictions on communicating with unregistered, suspended, or excluded attorneys regarding patent applications. The MPEP clearly states: Office employees are forbidden from holding either oral or written communication with an unregistered, suspended or excluded attorney or agent regarding an application unless it is one in which said attorney or agent is the applicant. This rule helps maintain the integrity of the patent application process and ensures that only qualified, registered practitioners are involved in patent-related communications with the USPTO. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Interviews with Non-Record Patent Practitioners Prohibited MPEP 408 Verify Patent Practitioner of Record Using Portal MPEP 101 Recommended Unrecorded Practitioner Cannot Approve Examiner's Amendments MPEP 408 Recommended Non-Registered Representatives Must Not Be Contacted For Restriction Actions MPEP 408 Recommended Interviews To Expedite Prosecution MPEP 408 Examiner May Suggest Interview for Application Advancement MPEP 408 Permitted Patent Practitioner Required for Power of Attorney MPEP 2213 Required Attorney or Agent Must Be Registered to Practice Before USPTO MPEP 402 Required Attorney or Agent Can Act Under Power of Attorney or Representative Capacity MPEP 2804 Permitted Patent Attorney or Agent Required for Design Patents MPEP 402 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Who can an examiner contact for interviews regarding a patent application? Can non-registered representatives be contacted for patent application actions? Can examiners initiate interview requests with patent practitioners? What form should be submitted when ...