What limited recognition is granted to suspended or excluded practitioners?

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.

Suspended or excluded practitioners are granted limited recognition to handle specific tasks related to pending applications. According to MPEP 407:

“The suspended or excluded practitioner will be granted limited recognition for a period of thirty (30) days, during which time the practitioner may conclude work on behalf of a client on any matters pending before the Office.”

This limited recognition allows the practitioner to:

• Conclude or withdraw from representation in pending proceedings
• Receive and forward correspondence
• Make appropriate filings to protect the client’s rights

However, this recognition is strictly limited to these activities and does not allow the practitioner to engage in new patent prosecution work.

For more information on pending applications, visit: pending applications.