What is the effect of altering an application after submitting an Oath/Declaration?

Altering an application after submitting an Oath/Declaration generally leads to the invalidation of the Oath/Declaration. The reason for this is that an Oath/Declaration is a formal assertion made by the applicant, confirming that the information contained in the application is accurate and complete as of the time of submission. When there are changes made to the application, it suggests that the original statements may no longer hold true, effectively negating the validity of the original Oath/Declaration.

This principle is grounded in the need for integrity and consistency in the patent examination process. It ensures that the information presented to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) reflects the applicant's current understanding and representation of their invention. If modifications are made after submitting the Oath/Declaration, the applicant may need to resubmit the Oath/Declaration to reflect the new information accurately.

Understanding the implications of changing an application post-Oath/Declaration submission is essential for patent practitioners to maintain compliance with the regulations set forth by the USPTO.