What is a general power of attorney in PCT applications?
A general power of attorney in PCT applications is a document that authorizes an agent or common representative to act on behalf of the applicant(s) in multiple international applications. MPEP 1807 provides guidance on this topic:
“A general power of attorney enables a practitioner to represent the applicant in all international applications filed by the applicant, provided that the practitioner is indicated in the request as the agent. The original general power of attorney must be filed with the receiving Office if the power is applicable to an agent or common representative who signs the request (Rule 90.5).”
Key points about general powers of attorney in PCT applications:
- They apply to multiple applications filed by the same applicant
- The original document must be filed with the receiving Office
- It must be indicated in the request if the agent or common representative signing the request is acting under the general power of attorney
- Copies may be submitted with subsequent applications instead of the original
This tool simplifies the process for applicants who regularly file international applications, as it eliminates the need to submit separate powers of attorney for each application.
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