What is the purpose of 37 CFR 1.501(a)?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 1 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. 37 CFR 1.501(a) serves two main purposes: It allows any person to file a written submission of prior art during the enforceability period of a patent. It permits the submission of statements made by the patent owner in federal court or USPTO proceedings regarding claim scope. As stated in the MPEP: 37 CFR 1.501(a) permits any person at any time during the period of enforceability of a patent to file a written submission directed to prior art consisting of patent and printed publications which that person states to be pertinent and applicable to the patent and believes to have a bearing on the patentability of any claim(s) of the patent or statements of the patent owner filed by the patent owner in a proceeding before a federal court or the Office in which the patent owner took a position on the scope of any claim of the patent. This provision facilitates the submission of relevant information that may affect the patent’s validity or interpretation. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 1 rules Collapse Person May Submit Prior Art Any Time During Patent Enforceability MPEP 1920 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does 37 CFR 1.501(a) relate to other post-grant proceedings? What is the significance of submitting prior art under 37 CFR 1.501(a)? What types of submissions are allowed under 37 CFR 1.501(a)? When can prior art be submitted under 37 CFR 1.501(a)? Who can submit prior art or patent owner statements under 37 CFR 1.501(a)?