To find the most effective patent attorney to help entrepreneurs with their inventions, it is advisable to go through the different things they can offer you and how they will help you. Different types of attorneys provide other services, such as IP and business attorneys.
There are two schools of thought regarding patent law – those who believe patent attorneys are a necessary evil and those who think they’re an essential good.
We’ve all heard of the term “patent troll”. They’re companies that buy patents and then sue people who use them for profit. But did you know that patent attorneys benefit the overall health of the patent system? We’ll discuss the advantages of using a patent attorney when starting a new company or business.
A patent attorney is an expert in patent law and is often called upon by entrepreneurs and inventors to write a patent application or help with other legal matters. This video gives you insights into how patent attorneys are different from regular lawyers and what they can offer as their services to business owners.
What is a patent attorney?
Patent law is complex. If you’re thinking of aconsidering a patent, you need an expert in the field. Patent attorneys are the only people qualified to evaluate patent applications and advise clients on how to protect their intellectual property.
When you don’t have time to do everything when starting a new business, you don’t have the time or money to hire a patent attorney. You need to pick someone you can trust and someone who has the experience to handle your case.
When do you need a patent attorney?
We’re all aware of the risks of getting sued for patent infringement, and it’s important to ensure infringing on other people’s intellectual property.
But what happens if you’re not infringing on someone else’s IP, yet they still sue you?
That’s where a patent attorney comes in. Patent attorneys are the guys who help you defend yourself against a patent troll or other company that wants to sue you.
Patent trolls don’t always go after large companies. They also go after small businesses and startups. They’re not just out to make money; they’re others into paying them.
What can patent attorneys do for you?
Patent attorneys are responsible for drafting patents. There are different types of patents, each with a specific purpose.
Here’s a breakdown:
* Utility: Used to protect inventions.
* Design: Used to protect the appearance of an invention.
* Plant: Used to protect plants and seeds.
* Method: Used to protect a process.
* Machine: Used to protect machines.
* Composition of matter: Used to protect the composition of matter of an invention.
* Article: Used to protect articles of manufacture.
* Process: Used to protect processes.
* Software: Used to protect software.
Patent applications are filed at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. They have to be signed, sworn, and submitted electronically.
Once an application is filed, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) can take anywhere from three months to six years to issue a patent.
When a patent is issued, the USPTO sends a Notice of Allowance. Once the notice is given, the patent owner has 90 days to respond. If they respond, the patent gets issued.
The owner has another 90 days to respond if the patent is denied.
Once the patent is issued, it becomes public. The patent owner can use it to sue others infringing on their patent.
A patent attorney can help you file your patent application and ensure it’s properly. They can also help you with patent litigation.
Patent litigation is the process of suing someone for violating your patent. This can be expensive and time-consuming. Patent lawyers can advise whether you have a solid case and the best way to sue someone.
How do patent attorneys work?
Patent attorneys have a unique skill set critical to any new business’s success. Their primary job is to help companies obtain a patent.
A patent is a legal document that gives the owner exclusive rights to a specific invention for a defined period. Patent attorneys write a patent application and submit it to the USPTO.
Patent applications can be submitted online or by mail. The submission process is similar to filing a trademark registration, although the USPTO is more strict than the TMEP.
Once the patent application has been approved, the patent attorney has done their job. They’ve secured a valuable asset for the company.
Frequently Asked Questions, Patent Attorneys
Q: What’s the difference between patent law and trademark law?
A: Trademark law deals with the ownership of trademarks, while patent law deals with inventions. For example, if you patent a new type of shoe design, that would fall under the umbrella of patent law.
Q: How do patent attorneys help entrepreneurs?
A: A patent attorney can help by providing legal counsel in all business development and commercialization aspects. They advise on how to structure and protect intellectual property rights, advise on patent and trademark applications, and help with contract negotiations.
Q: How does one become an attorney?
A: Most law schools offer a law degree with patent and trademark courses.
Top 3 Myths About Patent Attorneys
1. The patent attorney is not necessary for the inventor.
2. The patent attorney is expensive and unnecessary.
3. A lawyer does not guarantee you will get a patent.
Conclusion
The patent system is meant to encourage innovation. When you’re an investor, you need to protect your intellectual property. The patent system ensures nobody else can benefit from your work without paying you a royalty.
A patent protects your invention until you die and lasts only 20 years. After 20 years, it expires. There are two main types of patents: utility patents and design patents.
When you apply for a patent, you can also apply for sub-license rights. You’ll be able to grant licenses to companies to generate income. This is the best way to make money from your inventions.
