How is the correspondence address specified in a patent application filed before September 16, 2012?
For applications filed before September 16, 2012, the correspondence address must be specified in one of two ways: In an application data sheet (37 CFR 1.76) In a clearly identifiable manner in any paper submitted with the application filing As stated in MPEP 403.01(b): Pre-AIA 37 CFR 1.33(a) provides for an applicant to supply an…
Read MoreWho can change the correspondence address in a pre-AIA patent application?
The ability to change the correspondence address in a pre-AIA patent application depends on whether a 37 CFR 1.63 oath or declaration has been filed: If no oath or declaration has been filed, the correspondence address can be changed by: The party who filed the application Any patent practitioner named in the transmittal papers A…
Read MoreHow does the USPTO notify applicants of application abandonment?
The USPTO has a specific procedure for notifying applicants when their patent applications become abandoned. According to the MPEP: The Patent Examining Corps currently mails to the correspondence address of record, a Notice of Abandonment form PTOL-1432 in all applications which become abandoned for failure to prosecute. However, it’s crucial to understand that: Failure to…
Read MoreWhat happens if multiple correspondence addresses are specified in a pre-AIA patent application?
When multiple correspondence addresses are specified in a pre-AIA patent application, the USPTO follows a specific order to select which address to use. According to MPEP 403.01(b): Where more than one correspondence address is specified, the Office will select one of the correspondence addresses for use as the correspondence address. This is intended to cover,…
Read MoreHow does filing a 37 CFR 1.63 oath or declaration affect the correspondence address in pre-AIA applications?
The filing of a 37 CFR 1.63 oath or declaration in pre-AIA applications has significant implications for the correspondence address. According to MPEP 403.01(b): Where a correspondence address was set forth or changed pursuant to pre-AIA 37 CFR 1.33(a)(1) (prior to the filing of a pre-AIA 37 CFR 1.63 oath or declaration), that correspondence address…
Read MoreCan an applicant appoint two patent practitioners for the same application?
Yes, an applicant can appoint two patent practitioners for the same application. However, when doing so, it’s important to specify the correspondence address. As stated in the MPEP: “If the applicant simultaneously appoints two patent practitioners, applicant should indicate with whom correspondence is to be conducted by specifying a correspondence address.” This ensures clear communication…
Read MoreWho can change the correspondence address in a patent application?
The correspondence address in a patent application can be changed by specific parties as outlined in 37 CFR 1.33(a): A patent practitioner of record (37 CFR 1.33(b)(1)) The applicant (37 CFR 1.33(b)(3)) Prior to the appointment of any power of attorney, any patent practitioner named in the application transmittal papers who acts in a representative…
Read MoreHow can I change the correspondence address in a patent application filed before September 16, 2012?
The process for changing the correspondence address in a patent application filed before September 16, 2012, depends on whether an oath or declaration has been filed: Before filing an oath or declaration: The correspondence address can be changed by the party who filed the application, including the inventor(s), any patent practitioner named in the transmittal…
Read MoreWhat is the procedure for changing the correspondence address in a reexamination or supplemental examination proceeding?
The procedure for changing the correspondence address in a reexamination or supplemental examination proceeding differs from that of regular patent applications. According to MPEP 601.03(a): “A correspondence address or change of address filed in a patent application will not change the correspondence address for a reexamination or supplemental examination proceeding.” To change the correspondence address…
Read MoreWhat happens if there are conflicting correspondence addresses in a patent application?
What happens if there are conflicting correspondence addresses in a patent application? When conflicting correspondence addresses are present in a patent application, the USPTO follows specific guidelines to determine which address to use. According to MPEP 601.03: “Where more than one correspondence address is specified, the Office will select one of the specified addresses for…
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