How to Get Started When You Want to Patent an Idea in Chicago
Getting a patent in the United States is a multi-step process3 min read
Getting a patent in the United States is a multi-step process. If you have an invention or idea that you want to protect in the U.S. patent system, you must follow exacting requirements in order to make a successful claim. Chicago has its own set of rules and regulations for applying for a patent; understanding the nitty-gritty of the process will help ensure that you get a strong patent. To give you a better idea of what needs to be done in order to become a successful patent holder in Chicago, here is a comprehensive guide on how to get started:
What Is the U.S. Patent System?
In the U.S.A., the process of patenting an idea involves submitting an application to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). After successfully submitting an application, you may receive a patent that grants you certain rights, including the right to exclude others from making, using, selling, or offering for sale your invention. The patent also gives you the right to sue any person who uses your invention without permission.
To get a patent in the United States, you must meet a few conditions. First, the invention must be something that has not been made public before the application is filed. It must also be eligible for patent protection—i.e., it must be a type of invention specifically listed in the Patent Act's list of eligible inventions. Finally, the invention must be something new and useful, or an improvement on an existing invention.
While the process of patenting an invention is typically either federal or nationwide in scope, there are certain state-specific questions that can arise when it comes to actually planning, negotiating, and executing a patent. Therefore, it is important to understand how the process works in the state in which you are patenting.
Understanding Local Regulation in Chicago
In Chicago, the process for patenting an invention is slightly different from the national process. For example, the Illinois Secretary of State's office requires that inventors register their inventions in the state before filing for a patent, and the state may require additional documentary support to prove that the invention was original.
In addition, the process of obtaining a patent in Chicago is typically much longer than the process of obtaining a patent nationwide. In some cases, the process of becoming a patent holder can take years. This is due, in part, to the fact that Chicago inventors typically must first work their way through local courts at the state level before they go before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Moreover, obtaining a patent in Chicago can be more complicated due to the range of attorneys and attorneys’ fees. Securing experienced counsel that is knowledgeable of the local laws is particularly critical to successfully navigating the patent process in Chicago.
Getting Professional Legal Support
When pursuing a patent, it is important to secure experienced legal counsel who is knowledgeable in both local and federal patent law. Most local lawyers can provide counsel that can help you navigate the patent process in Chicago, but a lawyer who also understands federal law will be able to better serve your needs.
Today, attorneys are able to offer legal services online, thanks to services such as UpCounsel. UpCounsel is a network of experienced attorneys with an average of 14 years of experience. Through UpCounsel, you can access top-tier attorneys who have a track record of successful patent applications at rates lower than traditional law firms.
Moreover, UpCounsel’s attorney community provides access to profile pages with verified reviews of past work, so you know you are choosing a reliable attorney. UpCounsel also offers an AI-driven online portal with legal documents and other resources to further ensure success.
Overall
The process of obtaining a patent in Chicago is more intricate than the process in other states, thereby making it even more important to secure experienced counsel from legal professionals who are knowledgeable of both local and federal patent law. Mass-market services like UpCounsel make it easy to access top-tier attorneys with demonstrated success at competitive rates.
Topics:
