Before Applying for a Patent
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 to Do Before Applying for a Patent
What to Do Before Applying for a Patent
-
The USPTO's Patent Public Search Tool
What is the new Patent Public Search Tool?
-
How Business Method Patents Protect Internet and Software Companies
Business method patents are issued to inventors that have devised novel ways of doing business, such as a new online ordering process or a unique Internet advertising scheme.
-
Patent law creates an important form of intellectual property right for inventors, businesses, and entrepreneurs.
-
Can I Get International Patent Protection?
The economy is increasingly global. You may need patent protection outside of the United States.
Questions on Before Applying for a Patent
Questions on Before Applying for a Patent
-
Should You License or Manufacture Your Invention?
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.
-
What Are Improvement Patents and New Use Patents?
Improvement and new use patents are for inventions that improve on or feature new uses for existing inventions.
-
How Do I Know If My Invention Is "Nonobvious" When Applying for a Patent?
Inventions must be non-obvious to receive patent protection.
-
When Is a Combination Invention Patentable?
Many new inventions are combinations of existing inventions. But will the combination be patentable?
-
What Qualifies as "Prior Art" When Applying for a Patent?
To secure a patent, an inventor must show that the invention is new.
-
How the On-Sale Bar Could Prevent You From Obtaining a Patent
One's ability to obtain a patent depends on complying with the "on-sale bar," explained here.
Get Professional Help
Talk to a Patent attorney.
How It Works
- Briefly tell us about your case
- Provide your contact information
- Choose attorneys to contact you