What information must a patent practitioner provide when filing papers in a representative capacity?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. When filing papers in a representative capacity, a patent practitioner must provide specific information to identify themselves and establish their authority. According to MPEP 402.04 : Registration number Name Signature The MPEP states: “In filing such a paper, the patent practitioner must set forth his or her registration number, his or her name and signature. Further proof of authority to act in a representative capacity may be required.” This requirement applies even when the practitioner is not of record in the application. It helps facilitate replies on behalf of applicants and eliminates the need for filing powers of attorney in individual applications when there are changes in law firms or corporate patent staffs. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Patent Practitioner Must Provide Registration Number and Signature MPEP 402.04 Required Further Proof of Authority for Representative Actions Required MPEP 402.04 Required Registration Number and Signature Required for Filing MPEP 402.04 Required Patent Practitioner Must Represent All Assignees MPEP 402.04 Prohibited Patent Practitioner Must Represent All Applicants MPEP 402.04 Prohibited Patent Practitioner May Act for Pre-2012 Applicants MPEP 402.04 Permitted Powers of Attorney for Customer Number Practitioners MPEP 402 Permitted Registration Number Required for Ten or Fewer Patent Practitioners MPEP 402 Patent Practitioner or Joint Inventor Can Give Power of Attorney MPEP 402 Permitted Interviews With Patent Practitioners Not of Record Require Approval MPEP 402.04 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does the USPTO handle conflicting instructions from multiple representatives? What is the sig...