How does the USPTO handle correspondence from multiple attorneys in a patent application?

Question

Accepted Answer

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. The USPTO has specific guidelines for handling correspondence from multiple attorneys in a patent application: If multiple attorneys are listed on the Power of Attorney form , the USPTO will direct all correspondence to the first listed attorney. The first listed attorney is considered the ‘correspondence address’ for official communications. As stated in MPEP 403.01(a) : ‘If more than one attorney is of record, the Office will direct correspondence to the first listed attorney in the Power of Attorney.’ Other listed attorneys can still communicate with the USPTO, but official correspondence will be sent to the designated address. This approach ensures clear communication channels and prevents confusion in multi-attorney cases. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Power of Attorney for Design Patents Only MPEP 403 Change of Correspondence Address After Patent Issuance MPEP 403.01(a) Prohibited Correspondence Address May Differ From Post Office Address MPEP 403 Permitted Change of Correspondence Address After Issuance Requires Notification to Patentee MPEP 403.01(a) Permitted Correspondence Address if Not Specified MPEP 403.01(a) Permitted Patent Practitioner Can Change Correspondence Address MPEP 403.01(a) Permitted Office Will Not Engage in Double Correspondence Except as Directed by Director MPEP 403.01(a) Office Selects Correspondence Address from Specified Addresses MPEP 403.01(a) Permitted Requirement for Correspondence Address MPEP 403.01(a) Correspondence vs Power of Attorney Customer Numbers MPEP 403 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does the USPTO handle correspondence from multiple patent practitioners? How does the USPTO hand...