The Differences Between Filing A Patent Yourself And Hiring A Registered Attorney

There are several differences between filing a patent application yourself and hiring a USPTO registered attorney. Every year, thousands of novel inventors attempt to self-file their own provisional, design, or utility patent applications. Of course, the process to prepare these applications is known to be extremely time-consuming, difficult, and complicated. Applications have specific filing requirements that must be drafted and submitted properly. That’s why many novel inventors have sought the help of registered US patent attorneys Ohio. To help you secure your intellectual property, read on to learn the differences between filing a patent yourself and hiring a registered attorney.

In-Depth Process Knowledge & Experience

First and foremost, there are significant differences in process knowledge when filing a patent yourself and hiring a registered attorney. Expert agents know all about the different types of patent applications and can help you determine what option is best for your individual needs. Do-it-yourself filing techniques can give you a false sense of confidence and security, which may lead you to think the process will be simple. However, its almost always better to take advantage of the process knowledge and in-depth expertise an attorney can provide. This way, you can avoid getting caught up in a lengthy, frustrating, and complex process. Certainly, consider the differences in process knowledge when filing a patent yourself and hiring a registered IP attorney.

Legal Expertise

In addition, there are differences in legal expertise when working with a registered agent instead of filing a patent yourself. Registered attorneys can provide you with invaluable legal advice throughout the patent drafting, filing, and prosecution process. Of course, this will help you make the right moves and strategic decisions for securing intellectual property. Skilled IP attorneys will work to understand your vision, commercialization goals, and invention functionality. With this foundation, they’ll help you determine everything from the need for non-disclosures (NDAs) and confidentiality requirements, to the steps needed to legally bring your invention to market. Surely, consider how legal expertise will differ when filing a patent by yourself in the US.

Drafting & Filing Costs

Next, costs will certainly differ when filing a patent yourself or working with a professional agent. Expenses are a major barrier for inventors seeking professional help. Historically, filing a patent with an attorney was an incredibly costly process. However, today it is much more affordable to secure an application with a licensed, registered practitioner. In fact, you can secure a provisional patent application with a registered agent for less than $500. Indeed, you will encounter different costs and fees when filing by yourself or working with the best patent agents Seattle WA.

Post-Filing Support

Of course, post-filing support will certainly differ when filing a patent by yourself. Oftentimes, filing a patent application is not a one-step process. Before you even secure your application, you will need to obtain a comprehensive search report. This allows you to lower your risk of infringement and assess your invention’s commercial viability. Afterwards, you can obtain a provisional patent application (PPA) to secure a “Patent Pending” status for your novel idea. It is only at this point that you can focus on securing a design or utility patent. Therefore, you should consider the added benefit of working with a knowledgeable, experienced patent agent. After all, registered USPTO practitioners possess the industry expertise to help you navigate the various steps of the patenting process. Absolutely, there are various differences in post-filing support when working with a registered agent or drafting a patent by yourself.

Dealing With Complex Issues

Unlike filing a patent yourself, a registered USPTO agent will help you effectively deal with complex issues. As mentioned previously, the patent process is known to be quite long, complex, and tedious. Plus, it is filled with plenty of obstacles that can confuse you throughout the drafting and filing procedures. An experienced agent can help you navigate the field safely and successfully. After all, these USPTO experts are organized, diligent, and expert in preparing patent documents. Definitely, there are key differences on dealing with complex issues when working with an agent, compared to filing a patent yourself.

There are several key differences between filing a patent yourself and hiring a registered attorney. First off, there are key differences in the process knowledge and experience you will receive. In addition, the best USPTO registered practitioners can offer you sophisticated legal expertise throughout the drafting and filing process. Also, you should expect to encounter different fees based on the preparation method you choose. Of course, there are key differences in the post-filing support you will receive. Unlike filing by yourself, an agent can help you effectively deal with complex issues. Follow the points highlighted above to learn the differences between filing a patent yourself and hiring a registered attorney.