How can an attorney withdraw from representing a patent applicant?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29 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. An attorney can withdraw from representing a patent applicant by following these steps: File a request to withdraw as attorney of record with the USPTO Provide reasons for the withdrawal Sign the request Include the application number and applicant name Provide the correspondence address According to MPEP 2560 , “When an attorney has been appointed, the Office will not recognize another attorney or agent as speaking for the applicant in ex parte matters, unless the applicant revokes the previous power of attorney or the attorney withdraws from representing the applicant.” The withdrawal becomes effective once approved by the Office. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Revocation and Withdrawal of Attorney After Issuance Not Processed MPEP 2560 Permitted Assignment Does Not Revoke Power of Attorney MPEP 2560 Recommended Attorney or Agent Can Act Under Power of Attorney or Representative Capacity MPEP 2804 Permitted Power of Attorney Can Serve as General Proxy MPEP 402.02(a) Permitted Revocation of Power of Attorney at Any Stage MPEP 402.05(a) Permitted Patent Practitioner Notified Upon Power of Attorney Revocation MPEP 402.05(b) Attorney or Agent Must Be Registered to Practice Before USPTO MPEP 402 Required Power of Attorney Required for Patent Owner Representation MPEP 2804 Required Power of Attorney Required for Agent Representation MPEP 2213 Required Patent Practitioner Notified Upon Power of Attorney Revocation MPEP 402.05(a) Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What happens if an attorney dies or becomes legally incapacitated during patent proceedings? What is the impact of attorney withdrawal on maintenance fee payments? How can an attorney withdr...