The USPTO has developed a system to administer continuing legal education to practitioners. This system, entitled the "Continuing Education for Practitioners" or ("CEP") system, is intended to "increase efficiency, reduce pendency, and improve quality in the patent process." The USPTO states that the CEP system is "built on the recognition that a smoothly operating patent system requires well-qualified USPTO personnel working hand-in-hand with up-to-date patent practitioners."

The USPTO asked for volunteers to participate in a pilot test of an on-line system to administer the CEP system. 850 registered practitioners helped evaluate the system and provide feedback concerning the system's ease of use and the usefulness of the educational materials. Importantly, participants in the pilot program are deemed to have satisfied the first year's requirement for CEP at such time as the USPTO makes CEP a requirement.  

The CEP system will be part of a future MANDATORY continuing legal education program for all practitioners registered with the USPTO.  There is no date set for the full implementation of the CEP system, however.

Follow this link more information about the CEP system. 

The Law Office of Michael E. Kondoudis, PC

Patent Attorney Washington DC

www.mekiplaw.com