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Do you need a patent right now to protect your invention(s) and build your business? Are having intellectual assets a future business objective? The reality is that seeking patent protection can be a long and costly process. Drafting through prosecution can take anywhere from 1 to 10 years, or more, depending upon the type and complexity of the technology. Too often a patent is prematurely pursued before a business plan and financing are in place. It is important to receive proper guidance from someone who knows about patents, science, technology and business; indeed, someone who is looking out for your interests.

We want to understand what your business objectives are so that we can help you meet them. First and foremost, patents are business tools. We look for ways to help you exploit your invention strategically, while also managing risk and resources. Together we will look at your business and tailor our services to your specific needs and finances. Because of our scientific, business and legal expertise we can offer you advice on how to proceed logically and effectively prior to the preparation and filing of your patent application. In some instances there are alternatives to patent protection that make better business sense at that particular stage in your growth. We look at the short and long-term cost/benefit ratios in respect of your invention so that your business objectives can be aligned with the type of patent being sought. With a view to the future of your business, we can help you see the opportunities and risks inherent in your industry.

Inventions are patentable if they meet the three criteria of novelty, utility and an inventive step. Your invention is novel if it has not been made available to the public before the patent application is filed. Utility requires that the invention be functional and operative. An inventive step means that the invention is not an obvious progression to persons who are skilled in the area of the invention. Most countries do not grant patents for mere scientific principles or abstract theories; however, the application of such principles might be patentable as in the case of business methods or software.

Filing a patent application involves compliance with many intricate rules relating to deadlines, its description, claims, status and fees. Registered patent agents can help with the preparation of the patent application and with its prosecution before patent offices both nationally and/or internationally. Once a patent is granted it can be used to enforce rights against third party infringement and is available for licensing. For the duration of the term of the patent, the owner will have to pay maintenance fees.

Learn how much a patent can cost.

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