Patent Filing Fees
To prepare, file, and prosecute a patent application to get a patent granted costs money. The costs fall into a few categories: cost for preparing the application (see my post on application [...]
Micro entity status in patent applications
The USPTO defines three categories of applicants and inventors: you can apply as a large entity, small entity, or micro entity. Why does this matter? The entity size affects the fees owed to [...]
Public Use of Inventions: the What, How, and Why (Not)
In the U.S., “public use” of an invention can block the inventor from being able to patent the invention. This “public use” bar can be applied broadly. If the public use [...]
Patent application strategy – what is best?
The right patent application strategy will depend on what your goals are for your business, and for the intellectual property you’re developing. You’re running a company. Where to [...]
What is a patent troll?
The term “patent troll” is common now. News outlets are filled with pundits denouncing “trolls.” But what does the term mean? Where did it come from, and why is it used [...]
Can I register or use a dead trademark?
A dead trademark is one that was registered or applied for and is “dead” or abandoned, for several reasons. Whether anyone else can use it, or whether the original registrant can [...]
Who cares about trademarks?
Do you wonder about trademarks: what are they, and who cares? Trademarks are a crucial asset to any business or brand, and anyone running a business or building a brand should want trademarks to [...]
Who is a Patent Inventor, and what is inventorship?
A patent must name all inventors. But, how do you know who is an inventor? And, what is inventorship, and why is it important? Who is a patent inventor? Every person who contributes to the [...]
