How does 37 CFR 1.1066(b) relate to the correspondence address for international design applications?

37 CFR 1.1066(b) states: “Reference in the rules to the correspondence address set forth in § 1.33(a) shall be construed to include a reference to this section for a nonprovisional international design application.” This provision ensures that any references to correspondence addresses in other USPTO rules also apply to nonprovisional international design applications. It effectively…

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Can I change the correspondence address or appoint/change an agent through Private PAIR?

No, you cannot change the correspondence address or appoint/change an agent directly through Private PAIR, even if you have access to view the status of your international application. As stated in MPEP 1809: “The ability to view on private PAIR the status of the international application does not allow an applicant to change the correspondence…

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How 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…

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What 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,…

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How 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…

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Can 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…

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How 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…

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