What are the restrictions on USPTO employees regarding patent applications?

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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. USPTO employees are subject to specific restrictions regarding patent applications: They cannot prosecute or aid in the prosecution of a patent application, except to perform official duties. They are prohibited from acquiring, directly or indirectly, any rights or interest in any patent application. These restrictions apply during their employment and for two years after leaving the Office. As stated in MPEP 1702 : “ No employee of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) shall prosecute or aid in any manner in the prosecution of any patent application before the Office. ” This restriction is crucial to maintain the integrity and impartiality of the patent examination process. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Restrictions on Patent Applications by Office Employees MPEP 1702 Prohibited Restrictions on Patent Applications and Acquisitions by Office Employees MPEP 1702 Required Government Employees Prohibited from Prosecuting Patent Applications MPEP 1702 Restrictions on Post-Employment Patent Practice Coextensive with U.S.C. 207 MPEP 1702 Notices for Patent and Trademark Office Published in Official Gazette MPEP 1703 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 Office Employee Cannot Sign Inventor's Oath MPEP 1702 Substitution of Oath/Declaration After September 16, 2012 MPEP 1702 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What are the consequences of violating USPTO employee restrictions? Are there exceptions to USPTO employee restrictions on ...