Seattle Patent Attorney
There are people that are seemingly born to become entrepreneurs. They have creative minds that are always thinking about new ideas that could turn into more. When you come up with an idea or invention that could turn into something great you want to be sure to protect it. This means that you would be the only person that is able to turn this idea into an invention that is for consumer’s use. When you have a creative mind you want to be sure that you are doing everything to protect the inventions that you come up with and receive credit for your hard work.
What Is a Patent?
A patent is what you can apply for to give you ownership over an invention. The patent is used to protect the intellectual property that is behind your invention or ideas. Applying for a patent makes it so others cannot use, make, or sell your invention. Having a patent will give you the time to perfect your invention, have it made, and be able to sell it to consumers. If you are not sure what type of patent you would need for your invention, at Beard St. Clair Gaffney we are happy to help answer your questions.
Different Types of Patents
Utility Patent
The utility patent is what is used for common items that are used. This would include technology, household items, and machines.
Design Patent
Any ornamental designs that are new inventions would fall under a design patent. This means things like clothes, furniture, and jewelry would qualify for a design patent.
Plant Patent
This one may be obvious but it is for newly discovered or created plants.
What Are The Requirements For A Patent?
When it comes to deciding if you want to apply for a patent there are certain requirements that must be met in order for your application to even be considered. First, you will need to have a detailed description of your invention. This will need to include how it’s made, how it works, and the purpose that it will serve. The instructions and descriptions need to be clear and detailed enough that an expert in the field would be able to understand and could recreate your invention from it.
The invention must also be useful, it must have a purpose that would be beneficial to the world. Your invention must be a process, machine, composition of matter, and articles of manufactures to be considered for a patent. Another requirement is that your invention is new and has never been seen before. If you are in the process of applying for a patent be sure to keep your invention private and not share it with the public. Lastly, the invention should come as a surprise to those in the field and be inventive. Your invention should not be an obvious idea.
How to Apply For A Patent
When it comes to applying for a patent can be an extensive process but worth it. Getting your patent will protect your invention and give you the time needed to get your invention out to the world. Determining what kind of patent you will need for your invention is the first step and will need to choose from utility, design, and plant patents. Make sure that your invention is patentable using the guidelines above so you do not waste your time with the application process. Once you know that your invention is patentable and what kind of patent you will be applying for you will need to decide if you want to use a patent attorney. It may be tempting to go through the application process alone, but many choose to use a patent attorney due to their experience and knowledge. Using a patent attorney will give you confidence that your invention is being protected properly. With or without the help of an attorney you will finish your application and submit it to the USPTO.
After your application is submitted if there is any missing information or problems with your application it will be assigned to an examiner. This examiner will be in contact with you or your patent attorney about what needs to be changed with your application for it to be resubmitted. If your application is complete, it will be processed and then if you are approved for a patent they will inform you of the news. At that point, you will be asked to pay particular fees that are associated with the patent. Once your fees are paid, you will officially have ownership over your invention and they will mail your patent information.
Why Beard St. Clair Gaffney?
We know that when you have an invention that you put your time and effort into that it should be protected. At Beard St. Clair Gaffney we want to help you protect your ideas. If you want help with the application process, need advice, or need help protecting your patent we are able to help you. We are experienced and have the knowledge needed to help you will any of your patent law needs. Please call us with any questions that you may have, you may have the next best invention and may not even know it. Patent law is complex and with our detail-oriented team, we will get your invention adequately protected with a patent.
FAQ
Do I have to get a patent for my invention?
You are not required to apply for a patent for your invention but we strongly recommend that you do. If you are to put your invention out there, another individual could see it and claim it as their own invention. If they apply for a patent with your invention, they would be granted the patent. The patent will always be awarded to the individual that applies for the patent first, not the original inventor.
How long does a patent protect my invention?
For a design patent, your invention is protected for 14 years. For plant and utility patents, your invention is protected for 20 years. Once the patent expires, your invention is open to the public.
How long before I have my Patent?
There can be a lot of variables but on average from the time you start your application to the time you get your patent awarded is about 24 months.
