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What is the Power of Attorney? (PoA)

Written by Jan Buza

Co-founder of Trama

A Power of Attorney (PoA) is a legal document authorizing a third party to act on the signatory's behalf. In trademark law, it authorizes a legal representative; an attorney, law firm, or online legal service; to file and manage a trademark application, respond to office actions, and handle other IP office correspondence in the client's name.

Most IP offices require a signed PoA when a trademark application is filed through a representative. The document is typically prepared by the representative, pre-filled with the relevant details, and sent to the client for signature before filing.

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