What are the requirements for signing amendments in patent applications?
Amendments and other papers filed in a patent application must be signed by specific individuals as outlined in 37 CFR 1.33(b):
- A patent practitioner of record
- A patent practitioner not of record who acts in a representative capacity under the provisions of 37 CFR 1.34
- The applicant (37 CFR 1.42)
It’s important to note that for juristic entities (e.g., corporations), 37 CFR 1.33(b)(3) specifies:
“Unless otherwise specified, all papers submitted on behalf of a juristic entity must be signed by a patent practitioner.”
This requirement ensures that juristic entities are properly represented in patent proceedings.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 400 - Representative of Applicant or Owner,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure