What are the consequences of violating USPTO employee restrictions?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 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. Violating USPTO employee restrictions can result in severe consequences, including criminal penalties. According to MPEP 1702 : “ Violation of the provisions of this section by a former employee of the Office is punishable in accordance with 18 U.S.C. 207. “ The consequences may include: Fines Imprisonment Loss of professional licenses Damage to professional reputation The severity of the punishment depends on the nature and extent of the violation. These strict penalties underscore the importance of adhering to the restrictions and maintaining the integrity of the patent examination process. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Restrictions on Patent Applications and Acquisitions by Office Employees MPEP 1702 Required Patent Priority After Appointment Termination MPEP 1702 Prohibited Permitted Patent Practitioners Must Be Registered or Recognized MPEP 1702 Permitted Requirement for Former Office Employee Post-Employment Undertaking MPEP 1702 Permitted Restrictions on Patent Applications by Office Employees MPEP 1702 Prohibited Office Employee Cannot Sign Inventor's Oath MPEP 1702 Substitution of Oath/Declaration After September 16, 2012 MPEP 1702 Permitted Restrictions on Post-Employment Patent Practice Coextensive with U.S.C. 207 MPEP 1702 Government Employees Prohibited from Prosecuting Patent Applications MPEP 1702 Government Employees Must Adhere to Conflict-of-Interest Laws When Practicing Before USPTO MPEP 1702 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Are there exceptions to USPTO employee restrictions on patent applications? Can former USPTO employees work on patent applications they examined? What conflict-of-interest laws apply to USPTO employees ...