How does the USPTO determine the correspondence address when multiple patent practitioners are involved?
The USPTO determines the correspondence address based on the most recent information provided. According to MPEP 403.02:
“If, after one patent practitioner is appointed, a second patent practitioner is later added by submission of a new power of attorney appointing both practitioners, correspondence will be mailed to the latest correspondence address of record.”
This means that the USPTO will use the most recently provided correspondence address, regardless of which practitioner it is associated with. This practice is governed by 37 CFR 1.33 and 37 CFR 1.76, which provide regulations on correspondence and application data sheets. It’s crucial for applicants and practitioners to keep the correspondence address up to date to ensure proper communication with the USPTO.
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