What post-employment restrictions apply to former USPTO employees?

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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. Former USPTO employees are subject to certain post-employment restrictions regarding patent matters. According to MPEP 1702 , which cites 37 CFR 11.10(b) , former employees must sign a written undertaking agreeing to: Not knowingly act as an agent or attorney for any person before the USPTO in connection with any patent or patent application in which the employee personally and substantially participated during their employment. Not knowingly act within two years after terminating employment as an agent or attorney for any person before the USPTO in connection with any patent or patent application that was pending under the employee’s official responsibility within one year prior to termination. These restrictions are designed to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure the integrity of the patent examination process. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Government Employees Must Adhere to Conflict-of-Interest Laws When Practicing Before USPTO MPEP 1702 Requirement for Former Office Employee Post-Employment Undertaking MPEP 1702 Permitted Restrictions on Patent Applications by Office Employees MPEP 1702 Prohibited Restrictions on Post-Employment Patent Practice Coextensive with U.S.C. 207 MPEP 1702 Patent Priority After Appointment Termination MPEP 1702 Prohibited Restrictions on Patent Applications and Acquisitions by Office Employees MPEP 1702 Required Permitted Patent Practitioners Must Be Registered or Recognized MPEP 1702 Permitted Office Employee Cannot Sign Inventor's Oath MPEP 1702 Substitution of Oath/Declaration After September 16, 2012 MPEP 1702 Permitted Government Employees Prohibited from Prosecuting Patent Applications MPEP 1702 Other R...