Can the public attend patent appeal oral hearings?
The public’s ability to attend patent appeal oral hearings depends on the type of application involved. According to the MPEP:
“The Board’s current procedure permits members of the public to attend oral hearings in appeals of reexamination proceedings, reissues, and published applications. Members of the public are not permitted to attend appeals of non-published applications.”
For more information on attending oral hearings, you can visit the USPTO’s website:
www.uspto.gov/patents-application-process/patent-trial-and-appeal-board/hearings
It’s important to note that attendees should follow the published Hearing Room Protocol/Decorum and wear appropriate attire, which is described as “clothing that would be worn for an important business meeting.”
To learn more: