"Doing The Right Thing: Ethical Responsibilities In IP Practice"

All registered patent attorneys and patent agents (registered practitioners), as well as attorneys practicing in trademark and other non-patent law matters before the USPTO, are bound by the ethical standards set forth in USPTO Rules of Professional Conduct, 37 C.F.R. § 11.101. The key ethical rules include some fundamental basics such as: 1.) Do not lie, cheat, or steal. 2.) Do not take on work you do not feel that you are competent to perform. 3.) Avoid conflicts of interest in which a new client is opposed to a current or former client.

Any allegations that a registered practitioner has violated the rules can be filed as a written grievance with the Office of Enrollment and Discipline (OED). The USPTO cautions that allegations against a registered practitioner are serious and attempts to resolve differences or clarify any misunderstandings should first be communicated directly with the practitioner before a grievance is filed. A written grievance filed with the