What is the significance of a power of attorney 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. A power of attorney is a crucial document in patent applications that authorizes an attorney or agent to act on behalf of the applicant or assignee. According to MPEP 402.04 , “A power of attorney may be filed in an individual application, either original or reissue, and in any national stage application.” This document allows the designated representative to make decisions, file documents, and communicate with the USPTO on behalf of the applicant. It’s important to note that the power of attorney must be properly executed and filed to be effective. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Attorney or Agent Representation Required for International Applications MPEP 402.09 Permitted Attorney or Agent Must Be Registered to Practice Before USPTO MPEP 402 Required Patent Attorney or Agent Required for Design Patents MPEP 402 Permitted Patent Practitioner May Act for Pre-2012 Applicants MPEP 402.04 Permitted All Applicants Must Be Represented MPEP 402.04 Required Attorney or Agent May Only Act as Design Patent Practitioner MPEP 402 Permitted Refiling Power of Attorney When More Than Ten Practitioners Named MPEP 402 Recommended Powers of Attorney for Customer Number Practitioners MPEP 402 Permitted New Power of Attorney Required for Wrong Registration Number MPEP 402 Required Attorney Must Be Authorized for Type of Patent Matter MPEP 402 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does the USPTO handle conflicting instructions from multiple representatives? What is the significance of the &#8216;acting in a representative capacity&#8217; requirement in patent applications? What are the requirements for signing patent documents on behalf of juristic entitie...