Before you file a utility patent application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office you should consider whether your invention merits the hefty patent filing fees (and perhaps attorneys fees, too). Learn what it takes to get a patent whether it is a business method patent, software patent, or traditional machine or process patent.
What is the new Patent Public Search Tool?
Patent law creates an important form of intellectual property right for inventors, businesses, and entrepreneurs.
The economy is increasingly global. You may need patent protection outside of the United States.
You have a great invention and a patent. But now how do you make money? Most inventors choose between manufacturing the invention themselves and licensing the invention to a third party.
Improvement and new use patents are for inventions that improve on or feature new uses for existing inventions.
Many new inventions are combinations of existing inventions. But will the combination be patentable?
What is prior art and how does it affect the patentability of your invention?
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At Nolo, we prioritize quality and transparency because we know how important reliable legal information is to our readers. Our information is meticulously researched, regularly updated, and written in plain English by our experienced writers and editors. Learn more about our editorial standards.