Finding a trademark practitioner

Because U.S.-licensed attorneys need not apply for registration to practice in trademark matters before the USPTO, the USPTO does not maintain a roster of trademark attorneys.* The names of attorneys who specialize in trademark law may be found in the telephone yellow pages, or by contacting a local bar association. Most state bar websites offer a searchable online registry of their attorneys, and many bar associations operate attorney referral service programs. The USPTO cannot aid in the selection or recommendation of an attorney. You may also consider the services of the Law School Clinic Certification program.

All attorneys and agents practicing before the USPTO in trademark or patent matters are subject to the USPTO Rules of Professional Conduct set forth in 37 C.F.R. §§ 11.101 et. seq. and disciplinary jurisdiction under 37 C.F.R. § 11.19(a). Additionally, unauthorized individuals who represent others before the USPTO are subject to the disciplinary jurisdiction of the USPTO. See 37 C.F.R. §11.19(a).

*The USPTO does, however, maintain a list of Canadian trademark practitioners who have been recognized pursuant to 37 C.F.R. §11.14(c)(1) for the limited purpose of representing clients who reside in Canada. This list can be found here. Please note that OED is in the process of verifying the information contained herein. Additional information pertaining to a practitioner’s license status in Canada can be found here.

Disciplined attorneys

For information about practitioners who have been disciplined for violations of the USPTO Rules of Professional Conduct, or its predecessor, the USPTO Code of Professional Responsibility, search OED Final Decisions in the FOIA Reading Room.

Filing a grievance

Filing a grievance about an attorney or agent who practices before the USPTO.

Exclusion orders

The Commissioner for Trademarks possesses the authority to exclude a person from serving as an attorney, correspondent, signatory, or domestic representative in trademark matters before the USPTO, when appropriate. You can view show-cause orders and exclusion orders issued by the Commissioner for Trademarks.