BEEM PATENT LAW FIRM, CHICAGO, IL, USA, TEL. 312-201-0011

Many inventors ask, "Do I need to hire a lawyer or agent?"

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) permits inventors to file and prosecute their own patent applications, but they do not encourage it.  Instead, their advice is as follows:

"The patent application process is complex. The USPTO cannot assist in the preparation of patent application papers. If you are ready to apply for a patent, we strongly advise you contact a registered patent attorney or agent."  http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/com/iip/information.htm#LawyerOrAgent

Most people would be better off building their own homes than writing their own patent applications.  In a new home, most defects are quickly identified and cured, but this may not not be possible for a patent application, which will not be examined substantively for about a year.  If a patent application is found lacking, it may be too late to cure because no "new matter" can be added without filing a new application, which may present complications.

A patent application should be as complete as possible when filed.  The patent examiner will require a detailed written description, see 35 USC 112, but she will not allow any new matter to be added.  35 USC 132.  Many inventors and companies are brought to their knees in the Patent Office or in "bet the company" litigation when they find their patents are invalid or too narrow.  They often wish they had spent a few thousand dollars more on the patent application.

For assistance in patent matters, please contact:

BEEM PATENT LAW FIRM
53 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 1352
Chicago, IL 60604-3787 USA
Phone:  312-201-0011
Fax:  312-201-0022
E-Mail: patents@beemlaw.com

Disclaimer:  Information presented on this site is not legal advice and does not form an attorney-client relationship.