How does the USPTO handle correspondence for juristic entities in patent applications?

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.

For juristic entities (e.g., corporations, organizations), the USPTO has specific requirements for correspondence and signatures. According to 37 CFR 1.33(b)(3):

Unless otherwise specified, all papers submitted on behalf of a juristic entity must be signed by a patent practitioner.

This means that:

• A juristic entity must prosecute a patent application through a registered patent practitioner.
• All correspondence, amendments, and other papers must be signed by a patent practitioner on behalf of the juristic entity.
• The juristic entity cannot directly correspond with the USPTO or sign documents without representation by a patent practitioner.

This requirement ensures that juristic entities have proper legal representation in patent matters, which can be complex and have significant legal implications.