37 CFR § 11.403 Representation of Others Before the United States Patent and Trademark Office

§ 11.403 Dealing with unrepresented person.

Current through Aug 26, 2026 · Read all of Part 11

In dealing on behalf of a client with a person who is not represented by a practitioner, a practitioner shall not state or imply that the practitioner is disinterested. When the practitioner knows or reasonably should know that the unrepresented person misunderstands the practitioner's role in the matter, the practitioner shall make reasonable efforts to correct the misunderstanding. The practitioner shall not give legal advice to an unrepresented person, other than the advice to secure counsel, if the practitioner knows or reasonably should know that the interests of such a person are or have a reasonable possibility of being in conflict with the interests of the client.

← § 11.402 Communication with person represented by a practitioner.§ 11.404 Respect for rights of third persons. →