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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.
Explore our other
services.
Contact
us to discuss your needs.
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