When you create some type of product, material, design, or manufacturing process, it is recommended that you formally apply for a patent in order to safeguard your unique work. Having a patent will make sure that you remain the owner of your work and as such, get to control its use. This is especially important when you have a financial stake in your creation, because by leaving it unprotected you may be putting yourself at risk of losing a lot of money. If the patent application process sounds intimidating, let an experienced patent lawyer guide you through process by creating and submitting the proper paperwork and offering legal advice for your particular situation and legal needs.
Timeline for Patent Process
Once your product is created, and before you have released it any way to the public, it may be time to start the process patent, which you may want to discuss with your patent lawyer.
- Filing Application
During the application process, you must create and submit a formal application for the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to apply for the patent. There are multiple requirements that must be met as part of your application, and it can be beneficial to have the legal assistance of an experienced patent lawyer.
- Application Review
During the review process, the examiner for your particular patent will go over the details and begin to make a determination as to whether or not your application will move forward or not. There are multiple things that examiner will consider, and it may take some time for this process to be completed.
- Response to Examiner for Rejections or Objections
The examiner may have objections to parts of your application, or reject it completely. If this happens, you will have a chance to respond to those objections and possibly make appropriate corrections that will allow for your application to continue to move forward.
- Patent Grant
Receiving the grant for you patent is the end goal that you are pushing for, and will ensure that your product or design is legally protected as your property.
Hire a Patent Lawyer
A great way to help the patent application go smoothly, and make sure it is done at the proper time, is it work with an experienced patent lawyer who has been through this process many times. Contact a law office today to schedule an initial consultation with a lawyer to go over your particular legal needs.