Can a power of attorney be signed by less than all applicants or owners of a patent application?
Generally, a power of attorney must be signed by all applicants or owners of a patent application. However, there are exceptions: For revocation: A power of attorney signed by less than all applicants/owners may be accepted if accompanied by a petition under 37 CFR 1.36(a) and fee, with a showing of sufficient cause. For appointment:…
Read MoreWhat documents are recordable for name changes or mergers in patent ownership?
According to MPEP 314, the following documents are recordable for name changes or mergers in patent ownership: Certificates issued by appropriate authorities showing a change of name of a business Certificates showing a merger of businesses The MPEP states: Certificates issued by appropriate authorities showing a change of name of a business or a merger…
Read MoreWhy does the USPTO record documents other than assignments?
The USPTO records documents other than assignments for several important reasons: Public interest: To provide notification to third parties of equitable interests or other matters relevant to patent ownership. Transparency: To maintain a clear record of various interests in patents and patent applications. Legal compliance: To fulfill the requirements of 35 U.S.C. 261 and 37…
Read MoreWho can appoint a power of attorney in a patent application?
For applications filed on or after September 16, 2012, a power of attorney must be signed by the applicant for patent (i.e., all parties identified as the applicant as defined by 37 CFR 1.42(a)) or the patent owner. For applications filed before September 16, 2012, a power of attorney can be signed by the applicant…
Read MoreWhat information is available in the USPTO’s assignment database?
What information is available in the USPTO’s assignment database? The USPTO’s assignment database contains a wealth of information related to patent ownership. According to MPEP 301.01: ‘The USPTO maintains a database containing the assignment records of patents and patent applications. The USPTO also maintains a cumulative index of number of assignments recorded on the day…
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