What is the role of a patent practitioner in signing a micro entity certification?
Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09
This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice.
A patent practitioner plays a crucial role in signing micro entity certifications. According to MPEP 509.04(c), a patent practitioner can sign a micro entity certification in two capacities:
- As a patent practitioner of record
- As a patent practitioner not of record who acts in a representative capacity under the provisions of 37 CFR 1.34
Moreover, for juristic entities, “Unless otherwise specified, all papers submitted on behalf of a juristic entity must be signed by a patent practitioner.” This includes micro entity certifications for corporate assignees or other organizational parties under 37 CFR 1.46.
Topics:
MPEP 500 - Receipt and Handling of Mail and Papers
Patent Law
Patent Procedure