This page consolidates MPEP guidance interpreting 35 U.S.C. § 293, including 3 rules 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.

Summary

35 USC 293 enables foreign patent holders to officially designate a domestic representative within the United States for legal service and communication purposes with the USPTO.

What this section covers

• Outline the process for foreign patent holders to establish a legal point of contact in the United States.
• Explain the requirements for nonresident patentees to maintain proper legal representation and service channels.

Key obligations

• Foreign patent holders must file a written designation with the USPTO identifying a domestic representative.
• The designated representative must be a person residing within the United States.
• Provide a clear name and address for the domestic representative in the official designation.

Practice notes

• Ensure the domestic representative is reliable and can promptly handle legal communications.
• Maintain updated contact information for the designated domestic representative.

Based on MPEP Last Modified: 10/30/2024 08:50:22