What to Know About Getting a Provisional Patent in Chicago
Are you an inventor or business professional with an idea for a new product in Chicago2 min read
Are you an inventor or business professional with an idea for a new product in Chicago? A provisional patent provides the legal protection you need to secure your invention. Read on to learn understanding the basics of a provisional patent and the steps you need to take to secure one.
Provisional patent applications, also known by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) as PPA’s, are a relatively new concept and an ideal first step in the patenting process. When a business files a provisional patent, it is in effect for the duration of one year and gives your business the right to declare that the invention is “patent pending” and receive legal protection for it during that time.
Chicago is home to the seventh-largest number of businesses in the nation, making if fertile ground for new inventions. Protecting your inventions is vitally important to protecting your bottom line, and filing a provisional patent application is the best way to do that.
Your provisional patent application should include a written description of the invention, a written description of any aspects of the invention that are made in the drawings, and any drawings of the invention and any other items of importance in relation to the invention. Any diagrams, drawings, or photos that show the components of the invention and how they work together must be included in the application as well.
When filing a provisional patent application, take steps to protect your ideas and inventions. Don’t rely on the government to protect your idea; it’s up to you to make sure your application is complete, accurate, and complete. When you file the application, take all precautions to make sure your ideas remain confidential.
For a small business in Chicago, filing a provisional patent is an affordable and effective way to protect your ideas. Once the application is filed, you can mark your invention as patent pending and no other person or business has the right to claim the invention as their own.
Inventors and entrepreneurs in Chicago have access to up to date support when filing a provisional patent application. Contacting a local patent lawyer for assistance with the process can help you get a better handle on the application. UpCounsel works with experienced business lawyers who understand local regulations and can provide the expertise necessary to secure your patent.
No matter the size of the business or the scope of the project, UpCounsel’s network of experienced lawyers can provide assistance with filing a provisional patent application. Our team of lawyers is ready to help your business succeed in protecting their invention or intellectual property. We can also assist with filing the fulfillment document and preparing the formal patent application that can be filed when the provisional patent expires.
Protecting your invention is an important part of your business plan. Investing in legal guidance and support when filing a provisional patent will give you peace of mind and financial assurance. With the right resources, you can help your business succeed in Chicago with legal protection through the patent process.
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