What matters are decided by the General Counsel of the USPTO?

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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. The General Counsel of the USPTO is responsible for deciding several important matters, including: Requests for confidentiality waiver under 35 U.S.C. 122 Certain petitions for time extensions related to appeals Petitions regarding enrollment, recognition, and disciplinary matters Appeals and reconsideration requests in practitioner disciplinary proceedings Contested decisions involving the Office of Enrollment and Discipline As stated in MPEP 1002.02(k)(1) : “Requests for confidentiality waiver under 35 U.S.C. 122” and “All contested decisions involving the Office of Enrollment and Discipline” are among the matters decided by the General Counsel. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Request for Confidentiality Waiver Under 35 U.S.C. 122 MPEP 1002.02(k)(1) Petitions for Disciplinary Decisions from Director MPEP 1002.02(k)(1) Appeals and Reconsiderations for Practitioner Discipline MPEP 1002.02(k)(1) Fee Must Be Included In Petition MPEP 1002 Required Separate Petitions for Distinct Subjects Required MPEP 1002 Recommended Petitions Must Be Filed For Enrollment Recognition MPEP 1002.02(k)(1) Petitions on Appealable Matters Not Entertained MPEP 1002 Petitions to Extend Time for Filing Appeal Notice MPEP 1002.02(k)(1) Petitions to the Director for Ex Parte Reexamination Appeals and Other Matters MPEP 1002 Permitted Petition to Invoke Director's Supervisory Authority MPEP 1002 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the process for appealing a decision of the Director of the Office of Enrollment and Discipline? How can a practitioner appeal a decision of the USPTO Office of Enrollment and Discipline? What are ex parte questions in patent cases before th...