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I have an idea for an invention, where do I start?
It is best to reduce your idea to writing in order to document a date of invention. If possible, make one or more sketches of your invention and provide a description of how the invention is used, making note of any problems the invention solves. Continue reading “I have an idea for an invention, where do I start?” »
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What is the difference between a provisional patent application and a non-provisional patent application?
A provisional patent application is, essentially, an informal patent application that does not require claims or formal drawings prepared by a draftsman. Continue reading “What is the difference between a provisional patent application and a non-provisional patent application?” »
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My invention is not found in a patent search, now what do I do?
In order to protect your invention, so that you can approach manufacturers and/or reveal your invention to the public, you should attempt to obtain a U.S. patent by filing a patent application in the USPTO. Continue reading “My invention is not found in a patent search, now what do I do?” »
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I am ready to proceed with obtaining patent protection for my invention; should I file a provisional patent application or a non-provisional patent application?
The decision whether to file a provisional patent application or a non-provisional patent application is largely dependent upon available finances and the stage of development of the invention. Continue reading “I am ready to proceed with obtaining patent protection for my invention; should I file a provisional patent application or a non-provisional patent application?” »
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Can I obtain a global patent that protects my invention throughout the world?
Patents are granted by individual countries and are enforceable only within the territory of that country. While a global patent does not exist, there is a procedure to file an international patent application under a treaty known as the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). Continue reading “Can I obtain a global patent that protects my invention throughout the world?” »
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How long does it take to obtain a patent after filing a patent application?
While there can be no guarantee that the USPTO will grant a patent, the average time frame from the filing date of a non-provisional patent application to the grant of a patent is between 14 months and 24 months. Continue reading “How long does it take to obtain a patent after filing a patent application?” »
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How do I know my attorney won’t steal my idea?
Registered patent attorneys are licensed under both the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and at least one State Bar. Both the State Bar and the USPTO have strict ethic rules governing the conduct of attorneys. Continue reading “How do I know my attorney won’t steal my idea?” »
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Should a trademark used on a product that is sold throughout the U.S. be registered?
Yes. A trademark that is used in connection with goods or services sold in interstate commerce should be registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
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When can the R within the circle (i.e., ®) be used?
The federal registration symbol of the R enclosed within a circle may be used once a trademark is actually registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
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Is it possible to register a trademark in Florida ?
Yes. When use of a mark occurs within a state (intrastate commerce) then registration at the state level is appropriate.
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Does a federal trademark registration ever expire?
A federal trademark registration can be renewed every 10 years, indefinitely, so long as the owner of the registration files a Section 9 renewal application verifying the mark is still in use in commerce.
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What is the difference between a trademark and copyright?
A trademark is used to identify and distinguish one’s goods and/or services in trade, allowing the public to identify the source of origin, and associated level of quality and satisfaction, Continue reading “What is the difference between a trademark and copyright?” »
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When is it possible to omit the year from the copyright notice?
The year date may be omitted where a pictorial, graphic, or sculptural work, with accompanying textual matter, if any, is reproduced in or on greeting cards, postcards, stationery, jewelry, dolls, toys, or any useful article.
