What is the duration of a power to inspect granted by an applicant or inventor?

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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. The duration of a power to inspect granted by an applicant or inventor is generally ongoing until explicitly rescinded. According to MPEP 104 : “An unrestricted power to inspect given by an applicant or inventor is, under existing practice, recognized as in effect until and unless rescinded.” This means that once granted, a power to inspect remains valid indefinitely unless the grantor takes action to revoke it. However, it’s important to note that this applies to unrestricted powers to inspect granted by applicants or inventors, and different rules may apply to other types of authorizations or parties. For more information on Patent application access, visit: Patent application access . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Permission for Competitors to Inspect Application MPEP 104 Permitted Power to inspect must specify application number and be limited to one application MPEP 104 Required Power to Inspect Ceases After Filing Power of Attorney MPEP 104 Power to inspect must name specific person MPEP 104 Required Inspection and Copying Are Equivalent MPEP 104 Written Authority for Access to Confidential Application Required MPEP 104 Required Patent Practitioner Must Be Named for Power of Inspection MPEP 104 Permitted Patent Practitioner Must File Power of Attorney MPEP 104 Access to Application Files Restricted MPEP 104 Permitted Attorney or Agent Must Be Named for Power of Inspection MPEP 104 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How is access to provisional patent applications handled? Can the Director of the USPTO grant access to a patent application? How is access to patent applications granted to unregistered individuals? How are powers to...