Prior Art Search

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An inventor’s brilliant idea holds immense potential. But before embarking on the exciting journey of securing patent protection, there’s a crucial step: the prior art search. This type of patent search attempts to uncover existing inventions and disclosures that are similar to your own. Knowing what’s already out there is essential for several factors: Avoiding…

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Patent Search

Patent Search Prior Art Search By Sheldon Brown | February 13, 2024 An inventor’s brilliant idea holds immense potential. But before embarking on the exciting journey of securing patent protection, there’s a… Read More

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How to Patent an AI or Machine Learning Invention

Inventor holding a lightbulb

Artificial intelligence (AI) encompasses the theory and development of computer systems to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence to accomplish. Machine learning is a subset within AI which utilizes algorithms and statistical models that allow the system to learn and adapt without following explicit directions. Artificial intelligence is here and will only continue to…

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Should You Hire an Attorney to Patent an AI or Machine Learning Product?

Computer coder inventing an AI product

Inventors in the artificial intelligence (AI) space should understand intellectual property rights associated with AI. Appropriately protecting your AI or machine learning invention using intellectual property is essential to ensure that you are adequately compensated for developing the invention. Although a patent attorney is not required to prepare and file a patent application, it is…

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Patent Agent vs. Patent Attorney

Patent agent talking with a patent lawyer

A patent practitioner is someone registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to represent others in matters related to patent prosecution. A patent practitioner may be either a patent agent or a patent attorney. In September of 2023 the USPTO reported that of the 50,425 active patent practitioners, close to 26% are…

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20 Important Questions to Ask a Patent Attorney

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The most important thing for a productive meeting is to come prepared. Before meeting with your patent attorney take the necessary time to evaluate your situation and understand what you want to get out of the meeting. This article examines some typical questions you may have for your patent attorney. Write down any questions you…

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How Much Does a Patent Lawyer Cost?

Patent lawyer explaining the fees on the paperwork

The primary role of a patent lawyer is to assist their clients with the difficult and time-consuming process of obtaining a valid patent. That, of course, costs money – but, how much money? Enough that it can be a shock to anyone not familiar with typical rates and fees. This article will examine the high…

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What Does a Patent Attorney Do?

Patent lawyer filling out patent paperwork

The field of patent law is unique as it has additional requirements for an attorney to meet before they can represent clients as a patent attorney. This article will examine the qualifications of a patent attorney, the difference between patent attorneys and patent agents, and what a patent attorney does. What Is a Patent Attorney?…

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Patent Lawyers

Patent Lawyers How Much Does a Patent Lawyer Cost? By Sheldon Brown | August 3, 2023 The primary role of a patent lawyer is to assist their clients with the difficult and time-consuming process of obtaining… Read More What Does a Patent Attorney Do? By Sheldon Brown | July 20, 2023 The field of patent…

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How to Patent a Tool

Tools hanging on a wall in a tool shed

People have been creating new tools to make life easier since the beginning of history. Tools are mechanical inventions that allow us to leverage the laws of physics to modify our environment. A typical tool is a handheld apparatus that a person physically uses, but the term tool can encompass a wide range of inventions.…

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