United States Patent and Trademark Office OG Notices: 22 October 2002
Notice of Suspension Mark D. Frederiksen, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, a patent attorney, registration number 31,357. In settlement of two reciprocal matters, the Director has suspended Frederiksen for five years from practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The Nebraska Supreme Court suspended Frederiksen, who had misappropriated $15,000 in fees from his own law firm, for three years for conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation; and for failing to maintain complete records of all funds of a client coming into his possession. The Nebraska Court concluded that suspension, rather than disbarment, was warranted because no client was harmed, restitution was made, Frederiksen expressed sincere remorse, he was respected by members of the legal profession for his work, and he had the support of members of his new law firm. The Iowa Supreme Court publically reprimanded Frederiksen. The Director concluded that Frederiksen also engaged in conduct reflecting adversely on his fitness to practice. The suspension runs from September 23, 2002. Frederiksen will be allowed to request probation after serving two years suspension. This action by the Director is taken pursuant to the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 32, and 37 C.F.R. 10.133(g). On behalf of James E. Rogan Under Secretary of Commerce For Intellectual Property and Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office September 23, 2002 JAMES A. TOUPIN General Counsel United States Patent and Trademark Office