How is double correspondence handled in patent applications?

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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 generally does not engage in double correspondence with applicants and their representatives. Specifically: The Office will not correspond with both an applicant and their attorney/agent. The Office will not correspond with more than one attorney/agent. If double correspondence is attempted, the examiner will include form paragraph 4.01 in the next Office action. According to MPEP 403: “Double correspondence with an applicant and their attorney, or with two representatives, will not be undertaken. See MPEP §§ 403.01(a), 403.01(b), 403.02, and 714.01(d).” Form paragraph 4.01 states: “Applicant has appointed an attorney or agent to conduct all business before the Patent and Trademark Office. Double correspondence with an applicant and applicant’s attorney or agent will not be undertaken. Accordingly, applicant is required to conduct all future correspondence with this Office through the attorney or agent of record. See 37 CFR 1.33.” Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Double Correspondence Not Allowed With Applicant and Attorney MPEP 403 Customer Number Practice Does Not Permit Law Firm Appointment MPEP 403 Form Paragraph 4.01 Required for Double Correspondence MPEP 403 Recommended Forms for Customer Number Practice Required MPEP 403 Customer Number Practice Permitted for Appointment of Practitioners MPEP 403 Permitted Change Customer Number Through USPTO System Required MPEP 403 Change Patent Correspondence to Customer Number MPEP 403 Customer Number Over Typed Address MPEP 403.01(b) Correspondence Customer Number Required for USPTO Access MPEP 403 Permitted Customer Number for Correspondence Address Required MPEP 403 Permitted Other Related...