online resource<\/a><\/u> for inventors to help assess the patentability of their inventions. The USPTO grants rights for utility, design, and plant patents for inventions that are \u201cnew and useful.\u201d Generally speaking, an invention is eligible for patent provided it is novel, non-obvious, and has not been previously publicly disclosed.<\/p>\nIn addition to knowing the criteria that make an invention patent-eligible, bear in mind that there are certain things that are expressly not patentable. These include the laws of nature, physical phenomena and abstract ideas.<\/p>\n
The Patent Process in Brief<\/strong><\/p>\nOnce you have determined which type of patent you wish to apply for, and have confirmed that your invention is patentable, you can begin the process of applying for your patent. The patent application process can be costly, so now is a good time to make sure you have sufficient funds for USPTO fees including the basic fee, search fee, an examination fee, and the issue fee. This is also a good time to consider hiring an attorney to help assist you through the process.<\/p>\n
Now, you or your patent attorney have drafted the patent application and are ready to submit your initial application for the type of patent<\/a><\/u> you seek. After you submit your application, you will be assigned an examiner to review the contents of your application. If your application is rejected, you will have the right to amend your application or argue against the examiner\u2019s objections. This process can be time consuming and require the help of competent patent attorneys or patent agents.\u00a0 Eventually, if the examiner finds your application eligible for issuance, you will receive a Notice of Allowance, which will list the issue fee and publication fee which may need to be paid prior to the patent being issued.<\/p>\nSpeak with a Silicon Valley Intellectual Property Attorney About Obtaining Your Patent<\/strong><\/p>\nThe patent process can be a long and costly one. It is a good idea to consider hiring a lawyer experienced in handling issues of intellectual property and patent applications to assist you in the process. The USPTO recommends hiring an attorney to assist you if you are not experienced in performing patent searches. The attorneys at Startup Company Counsel in Silicon Valley, California are well-versed in the patent process. Call us today at (408) 441-7555 or contact us online<\/u> to schedule a time to discuss your patent application.
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