So you have a unique product or idea that you believe should be patented. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (or USPTO) has a dedicated page on their website offering information on how to file for a patent, which is a great resource to use if you are thinking about filing for a patent.
On this page, the USPTO has listed definitions and links for the filing of three different types of patent applications. Those include:
- Utility Patent Application
- Design Patent Application
- Plant Patent Application
Each of the links take you to a new page that provides detailed information on how to file that particular type of patent and the supporting documentation that is needed for each of these patent applications. However, there is a considerable amount of information for each of these patents that needs to be reviewed in order to correctly submit the application and required supporting documents. The USPTO has noted that if you are looking to have legal assistance in the filing of your patent application that “you should select an attorney/agent who is registered to practice before the PTO”. Due to the complex nature in filing of a patent application, having an experienced and registered patent attorney could increase your chances for a successful filing with the USPTO.
Also on this page, the USPTO has provided information on how to file the patent application and supporting documents in a PDF format electronically through their EFS-Web submission solution. The USPTO states that the EFS-Web is safe and secure and also has the same benefits as paper filing of the application. But note that there are some documents that are not accepted by the EFS-Web and they have those listed for quick reference.
Finally, this page has other links of information that include General Information Concerning Patents, the different types of patents, and list of all the forms available through the USPTO.
The filing of a patent application can be a complicated and long process. The USPTO website is a great place to start. However, having an experienced patent lawyer assisting you in this process can make the patent procedure a little less stressful since a registered patent attorney knows the ins and outs of the USPTO and their filing requirements. To better understand the patent process or assistance on the filing process, feel free to contact one of our registered experienced patent lawyers to further discuss.
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