At The Patent King™ in Redondo Beach, our patent attorneys are here to help you protect your intellectual property (IP). When it comes to patents and copyrights, we can provide guidance on a design or utility patent search, patent prosecution, and more. However, if you’re not familiar with how the patent process works, we can provide insight into that as well. In this post, we’ll look at the patent process and how you can get started on your patent application. Keep reading to learn more, and please contact us with any questions.
What Is The Patent Process?
What Is The Patent Process?
Conduct a Patent Search
Patents are granted on a first-come, first-serve basis, so it is important to file your application as soon as possible. However, before you file, you should conduct a patent search to make sure that your invention is not already patented or there are no prior art references that would prevent you from obtaining a patent.
Apply for a Patent
In order to obtain a patent, an applicant must file a patent application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The USPTO will then review the application to determine whether it meets the requirements for patentability.
Patent Examination
After you have filed your application, the USPTO will assign it to an examiner, who will review it to determine whether it meets the requirements for patentability. If the examiner finds that the IP is not novel, the application will be rejected. However, if the examiner believes that the IP is patentable, they will issue a notice of allowance and the applicant will be required to pay a fee to have the patent issued.
Secure and Maintain Your Patent
Once you have paid the fee to have the patent issued, the USPTO will provide the proper type of patent for your IP. After your patent is issued and published, you may need to provide maintenance fees to keep the patent in force beyond four, eight, and 12 years, if you have a utility patent. Our team can help you understand the next steps once you’ve received your patent.
Patents can be a valuable asset for businesses and individuals, so if you have an IP that you think is worthy of protection, don’t hesitate to contact us at The Patent King™ to discuss your options.