What is the USPTO policy on filing duplicate copies of correspondence?
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) generally discourages the filing of duplicate copies of correspondence in patent applications, patents, or other proceedings. According to MPEP 502.04:
The filing of duplicate copies of correspondence in the file of an application, patent, or other proceeding should be avoided, except in situations in which the Office requires the filing of duplicate copies.
The USPTO may dispose of duplicate copies to streamline processing. However, it’s important to note that separate copies are required for different files, even if the content is identical.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 500 - Receipt and Handling of Mail and Papers,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure