Can a power of attorney be filed after the patent application is submitted to the USPTO?
Can a power of attorney be filed after the patent application is submitted to the USPTO?
Yes, a power of attorney can be filed after the patent application is submitted to the USPTO. The MPEP 601.02 states:
“A power of attorney may be filed in a provisional application, a nonprovisional application, a reexamination proceeding, or a supplemental examination proceeding.”
This means that you can file a power of attorney at various stages of the patent process, including:
- At the time of filing the application
- After the application has been submitted
- During prosecution of the application
- Even after the patent has been granted (for reexamination or supplemental examination proceedings)
However, it’s generally advisable to file the power of attorney as early as possible to ensure smooth communication with the USPTO throughout the application process. If you need to file a power of attorney after submission, use the appropriate USPTO form and follow the current filing procedures.
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Topics:
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure