Protecting & Profiting From Patented Inventions

How to Protect Your Invention From Theft When Pitching It

You want to show your invention to potential manufacturers distributors. But how can you do so without risking your intellectual property?

Royalties and Deductions When Licensing Your Invention: The Give and Take

Inventors ordinarily profit from their inventions by licensing them to manufacturers or distributors for a certain period of time.

I've Invented Something! How Do I Make Money Off It?

Patents can help you profit from your invention.

How Long Is My Patent Protection Good For?

If someone violates your patent, you can take legal steps to stop the infringement. But your patent rights are not valid forever.

What Does the First-To-File Rule Mean For My Patent Application?

Through the American Invents Act, the United States patent system became "first-to-file."

Sample Patent Assignment Agreements

Three free sample patent assignment agreements.

What Can I Do If a Company Uses My Product Idea Without Permission?

I gave a company an idea in writing. The company told me they were not interested. Shortly thereafter, the company ended up making a similar product—some minor changes, same name—and selling it in many stores. What can I do?

How Long Do I Have in Which to Sue for Patent Infringement?

Claims for patent infringement are subject to statutes of limitations, or time limits.

What Types of Damages Will Court Award for Patent Infringement?

If a competitor infringes on your patented invention, you may want to initiate patent litigation. What sorts of damages are you entitled to claim in such a lawsuit?