The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has recently implemented changes to its discretionary denial practices for post-grant proceedings, affecting processes such as inter partes reviews (IPR). These changes have been discussed and analyzed by various legal experts and publications, including ArentFox Schiff and Patent Lawyer Magazine. Concurrently, the Federal Circuit has issued rulings that impact patent law, including reaffirming the "carried forward" requirement for provisional priority in reexaminations and reissues, and limiting the use of applicant-admitted prior art in inter partes reviews. Additionally, the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) has been noted to institute IPRs even when concurrent ex parte reexaminations are ongoing. Other related developments include a Massachusetts federal court granting a preliminary injunction for noncompete violations while denying one for trademark infringement, and a Federal Circuit decision emphasizing the importance of a robust evidentiary record for building value in descriptive trademarks. The USPTO is also expediting patent issuance, with guidance provided on actions to take before paying the issue fee. These developments collectively reflect ongoing adjustments and clarifications in patent litigation and administrative procedures.