Coming up with a new idea is incredibly exciting. You are confident this will be the biggest thing since sliced bread.
You submit your application and patiently wait for its approval. However, if you’ve gone the DIY route, there’s a likelihood it will get denied, leaving you frustrated.
Common reasons for rejection
While every situation is unique, there are some common reasons why your application may be rejected. For example, there were filing errors, such as incomplete forms or missing fees. Or your application didn’t meet the four conditions needed for the patent to be issued:
- Your invention needs to work and not just be a theory
- A clear description of how to make and use your invention
- It has to be new and not done before
- Your invention can’t be an obvious change or combination of existing ideas
You can avoid these issues by working with a patent attorney. They will work with you to avoid the common pitfalls often associated with a DIY application. Patent attorneys understand all the crucial legal details of filing.
Before anything else can occur, a patent attorney will ensure that a comprehensive search is conducted for existing patents similar to your invention. This helps you identify if your idea is novel and not already done.
A patent attorney can review your documentation to determine if it’s clear and thoroughly explains every aspect of your invention. Their assistance can help you avoid costly errors that delay your patent approval. If you receive a notice during the patent office’s examination, they will review everything submitted and respond appropriately.
Your invention represents your hard work and creativity, and patent applications are too complicated to take the DIY approach. A minor error can cost both time and money and opens the possibility for someone with a similar invention to receive the patent, leaving you with nothing.
