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What does "Name of Living Individual Inquiry" in my office action mean?

Written by Jan Buza

Co-founder of Trama

If the USPTO issued an office action inquiring about the name of a living individual, it means the examiner suspects your mark identifies a particular living individual without their consent.

If this is the case, you must make a statement to that effect and provide their written consent. If this is not the case, you must also provide a statement. In the office action, the examiner will provide a format for the statement/consent for you to use. Once you submit a response, your registration should resume.

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