How does the USPTO handle unnecessary duplicate copies of correspondence?
The USPTO has a specific policy for handling unnecessary duplicate copies of correspondence. According to MPEP 502.04:
The Office may dispose of duplicate copies of correspondence in the file of an application, patent, or other proceeding.
Furthermore, the MPEP states:
When the Office does not require duplicate copies of a paper, the filing of multiple copies may cause a delay in processing by the Office. Accordingly, the Office may discard duplicate copies of correspondence filed in an application or patent file.
This means that if you submit unnecessary duplicate copies, the USPTO may discard them to streamline processing and prevent delays. It’s important to only submit duplicate copies when specifically required by the Office.
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