PATENT ATTORNEYS
PATENT ATTORNEYS
REPRESENTING INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESSES IN MATTERS OF PATENT LAW
Novel inventions are an extremely valuable type of intellectual property that require proactive action to protect. “Patenting” an invention allows the inventor to exclusively benefit from their achievement (for a certain amount of time) and take enforcement action against anyone who uses or exploits the invention without their permission.
If you are not sure how to register a patent or are currently involved in patent infringement litigation, you owe it to yourself and your future to work with reputable patent lawyers who are well-versed in intellectual property law. Our team at Potts Law Firm is here to answer any questions you might have about your patents and whether your rights have been infringed upon. Our mission is to ensure that you are armed with the resources and guidance you need to make informed, prudent decisions. When you allow us to handle your patent infringement case, you will work with seasoned legal professionals who have the knowledge and experience required to take your case to trial, if necessary.
Call (888) 902-6245 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation and learn more about how we can help you protect your valuable patents. Our firm offers same-day appointments and provides services in English and Spanish
WHAT IS A PATENT AND WHAT DOES IT PROTECT?
A patent is a government-granted right given to inventors that prevents other individuals and companies from selling, making, or using a registered invention in the United States without your permission for a set period of time. Not all inventions are necessarily patentable, however.
To be eligible for a patent, an invention must be:
- Novel: An invention is “novel” if it differs from comparable inventions in one or more significant ways. An invention is not novel if another inventor has publicly used, sold, or patented a substantially identical invention within one year of the date a patent application was filed.
- Non-obvious: If someone in the invention’s field would reasonably find the invention to be surprising, it meets the “non-obvious” requirement.
- Useful: If an invention does not have some form of utility or is inoperable, it is not “useful.” It must have some sort of functional purpose or confer some sort of benefit.
Ideas and theories are not patentable, even if they have merit. The inventor must show that there is a means of tangibly executing an idea or theory for it to be considered a patentable invention.
There are three major categories of patents:
- Utility Patents: New machines, processes, and chemicals can be protected by utility patents.
- Design Patents: These patents protect a unique physical appearance of a manufactured product. A specific component or an entire design can be patented.
- Plant Patents: These patents specifically protect new, manufactured plants.
Patents are not automatic, meaning an invention does not enjoy intellectual property protection the moment it comes into existence. This is in stark contrast to copyrights and trademarks, whose protections automatically apply to original works of authorship and brand names and logos, respectively. It is therefore in your best interest to register new inventions as soon as possible. Otherwise, there is the possibility that another inventor could seek a patent for a nearly identical invention and prevent you from enjoying the fruits of your efforts.
If you are not sure whether your new invention is patentable or how to apply for a patent, we can help. Our patent attorneys are familiar with how to apply with The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and can assist you throughout the process.
WHEN DO PATENTS EXPIRE?
Most utility and plant patents are valid for 20 years after the date an application is filed with the USPTO, known as the “effective filing date.” Design patents expire 15 years after the effective filing date.
Patents can in some circumstances be extended. A patent term adjustment (PTA) can be sought if there were substantial delays caused by the USPTO during the application and adjudication process.
When choosing legal representation to assist with patent infringement, it’s all about the results. We have recovered over $1 billion for our clients and are ready to put our resources and experience to work for you, so call (888) 902-6245 or contact us online today.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What can I do if someone infringes my patent?
Should any party ever violate the terms of your patent or try to use your patent without permission, you may have the grounds for a patent litigation case. Prevailing generally entitles you to damages, which may include lost profits and reasonable royalties.
The nature of your patent or the age of your business makes no difference: Our patent lawyers can provide the responsive advocacy and aggressive representation you need and deserve when enforcing your intellectual property rights. If you think there is even a chance you may be dealing with patent infringement, we encourage you to reach out to Potts Law Firm right away.
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At Potts Law Firm, we believe the details of your case matter and we work tirelessly to pursue just compensation on your behalf. Our team of experienced attorneys and staff are backed with the resources they need to win regardless of the obstacles your case faces. We do this all while keeping an open line of communication with you.
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