How does the USPTO handle correspondence in ex parte reexamination with multiple patent owners?

In ex parte reexamination proceedings involving multiple patent owners, the USPTO has specific procedures to manage correspondence efficiently. According to MPEP 2264: “Where there are multiple patent owners, the Office may treat the mailing address of the first named patent owner of record as the correspondence address of the patent owner. The Office will not…

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What is the role of the publication of the international registration in determining the correspondence address?

The publication of the international registration plays a significant role in determining the correspondence address for a nonprovisional international design application. According to 37 CFR 1.1066(a), if the correspondence address is not established through other means, the USPTO will use: The address of the applicant’s representative identified in the publication of the international registration, or…

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How can I change the correspondence address for a patent?

To change the correspondence address for a patent, you can follow these steps: Use the Office form Change of Correspondence Address, Patent (PTO/SB/123) to request a change for an issued patent. Send the request to the Office of Patent Application Processing during the enforceable life of the patent. Include both the patent number and the…

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What form is recommended for changing power of attorney or correspondence address in supplemental examination proceedings?

The USPTO strongly recommends using Form PTO/AIA/81B for changing power of attorney or correspondence address in supplemental examination proceedings. The MPEP states: “Patent owners are strongly encouraged to use form PTO/AIA/81B when submitting a power of attorney and/or change of correspondence address in a supplemental examination proceeding or a reexamination proceeding.” This form is specifically…

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How are Office actions mailed in ex parte reexamination proceedings?

In ex parte reexamination proceedings, Office actions are mailed using structured forms that include identifying information for the reexamination file and the correspondence address for the patent owner. The MPEP states: “Ex parte reexamination forms are structured so that the identifying information for the reexamination file and the correspondence address for the patent owner, which…

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Can I use a different correspondence address for USPTO communications than the one on my DM/1 form?

Yes, you can specify a different correspondence address for USPTO communications than the one on your DM/1 form for an international design application. The MPEP 2912 states: “Applicants may specify a different address than specified on the DM/1 form for the purpose of correspondence sent by the USPTO as an office of indirect filing.“ This…

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What happens if no correspondence address is specified for an international design application?

If no specific correspondence address is provided for an international design application filed with the USPTO as an office of indirect filing, the USPTO has a default procedure. According to MPEP 2912: “Where no such address has been specified, the Office will use as the correspondence address of applicant’s appointed representative. See 37 CFR 1.1041.…

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What is the difference between a correspondence address and a fee address?

The correspondence address and fee address serve different purposes in patent communications: Correspondence Address: Used for general communications related to the patent, including notices and receipts during prosecution and after issuance. Fee Address: Specifically designated for communications related to maintenance fees. The MPEP notes: “Unless a fee address has been designated, notices, receipts, and other…

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