Can a legal entity sign patent correspondence?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance 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. Yes, a legal entity can sign patent correspondence, but there are specific requirements. According to MPEP 502.02 : When a document is to be signed by a corporation or another juristic entity, the signature must comply with 37 CFR 1.33(b)(3). The requirements for a legal entity’s signature include: The name of the person signing Their capacity (e.g., President, CEO, General Counsel) The name of the legal entity For example, a valid signature for a corporation might look like: /John Smith, President, XYZ Corporation/ It’s important to note that the person signing must have the authority to bind the legal entity in matters before the USPTO. This ensures that the correspondence is legally binding and properly authorized. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Signature Must Include Design Status MPEP 502.02 Required Handwritten Signature Must Be Truly Handwritten MPEP 502.02 Prohibited S-Signature for Patent Correspondence MPEP 502.02 Permitted Person Inserting Signature Must Certify It Is Their Own MPEP 502.02 Patent Practitioner Must Provide Registration Number for Juristic Entity Applicant MPEP 502.02 Required Resubmission Within Two Weeks Required MPEP 502 Date of Deposit for Priority Mail Express Correspondence MPEP 502 Permitted Facsimile Transmissions for Correspondence Must Include Application Identifiers MPEP 502 Recommended Office Date Stamp Requirement for Returned Papers MPEP 502 Recommended Correspondence Must Be Submitted via USPTO Electronic Filing System MPEP 502 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What are the consequences of an improper signature on patent correspondence? What is an S-signature in USPTO correspondence and how is ...