Who can submit prior art or patent owner statements under 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. According to 37 CFR 1.501(a), any person can submit prior art or patent owner statements during the enforceability period of a patent. The MPEP clearly states: 37 CFR 1.501(a) permits any person at any time during the period of enforceability of a patent to file a written submission . This broad allowance includes, but is not limited to: Inventors Patent attorneys or agents Competitors Researchers Members of the public The inclusive nature of this provision encourages the submission of relevant information from diverse sources, potentially enhancing the quality and validity of granted patents. 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 purpose of 37 CFR 1.501(a)? 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)?