Washington Declaration is the name given to a legal document that is essential in the process of submitting a patent application. This declaration essentially confirms that the inventor(s) of the invention mentioned in the patent application are deceased, incapacitated, or cannot be found. The purpose of the Washington Declaration is to prove that the inventors listed in the patent application are unable to sign the required power of attorney and to appoint a patent agent or attorney to act on their behalf. The Power of Attorney for Patent Application, on the other hand, is a document that authorizes a patent agent or attorney to act on behalf of the inventors during the patent application process. This document grants the authorized representative the power to file, prosecute, and make necessary amendments to the patent application. In specific cases where the inventors are unable to sign the power of attorney due to their unavailability, incapacity, or death, the Washington Declaration is required to accompany the power of attorney. This declaration, supported by evidence such as death certificates or medical records, verifies the circumstances preventing the inventors from providing their own representation. The existence of different types of Washington Declaration and Power of Attorney for Patent Application solely depends on the specific circumstances of the availability or incapacity of the inventors. These circumstances can be broadly classified as follows: 1. Washington Declaration and Power of Attorney for Deceased Inventor(s): This type of declaration is necessary when the named inventor(s) has passed away, and their legal representatives must be established to handle legal matters related to the patent application. 2. Washington Declaration and Power of Attorney for Incapacitated Inventor(s): If the inventor(s) are incapacitated due to mental or physical conditions, a Washington Declaration must be provided along with the power of attorney to appoint a representative authorized to act on their behalf during the patent application process. 3. Washington Declaration and Power of Attorney in Unknown Inventor(s) Cases: In situations where the inventor(s) cannot be located or their whereabouts are unknown, this type of declaration is required to clarify their absence and assign an authorized representative. It is important to note that the exact requirements and terminology may vary depending on the jurisdiction or patent office to which the application is submitted. Therefore, it is advisable to consult the relevant patent law or seek professional legal advice when dealing with Washington Declarations and Powers of Attorney for Patent Application.