What does “reasonable notice” mean in the context of attorney withdrawal from patent proceedings?
In the context of attorney withdrawal from patent proceedings, “reasonable notice” is not strictly defined by a specific time period. According to MPEP 2623:
“‘Reasonable notice’ would allow a reasonable amount of time for the client to seek the services of another practitioner prior to the expiration of any applicable response period.”
This means that the withdrawing attorney or agent should provide sufficient notice to their client before any response deadlines, allowing the client enough time to find and engage new representation. The adequacy of notice may depend on factors such as the complexity of the case and the remaining time before any deadlines.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2600 - Optional Inter Partes Reexamination,
MPEP 2623 - Withdrawal Of Attorney Or Agent,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure