Patent Law

The patent venue statute plays a significant role in determining where patent infringement lawsuits can be brought. Because this legal provision has far-reaching implications for both patent holders who are trying to protect their intellectual property (IP) rights and...

Obtaining a patent is not a quick (or easy) process. In the United States, it takes an average of 22 months for a patent to be granted or denied, and that’s a very long time to wait to bring something to market. That’s why you frequently see new products being offered...

A “patent troll” is an unpleasant term used to describe a company that acquires and enforces patents, primarily for the purpose of extracting licensing fees or suing other companies for alleged infringement. In more polite terms, they’re often called “patent assertion...

Many creatives wonder if they can patent an idea, which has created debates. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) defines a patent as a grant of a property right to an inventor. Thus, it protects an innovation. But what about an idea? Here is what you...

As a patent owner, it's essential to understand the concept of patent term extension and adjustment. These mechanisms can potentially extend the life of your patent, allowing you to maximize the benefits of your intellectual property. Typically, a utility patent has a...

Getting a patent can take months or even years (2 years is somewhat typical). This is why you will often see products that advertise a “patent pending” status. A company has started selling a product, knowing that a patent application has been filed, but they want to...

The patent process is inherently time-sensitive. The longer that an individual inventor or innovative business waits to file a patent, the more likely their invention will be impacted by claims of prior art. It is important to submit a non-provisional patent...

Patent filing is an essential step toward protecting your intellectual property. However, many individuals and businesses often try to save money by filing the patents themselves, commonly known as DIY patent filing. It may seem like a cost-effective approach, but it...

Prosecuting patent infringement is often about protecting an idea, invention or manufacturing process. A patent extends the sole right to use a process, invention or concept for years. Innovative businesses can often produce better products than their competitors or...

Protecting your invention with a patent prevents others from using it without your permission. Nonetheless, your idea may also not be new, which means it won't be eligible for a patent. Accordingly, you need to conduct a search to determine if someone else or a...