Patent Law in Columbus, GA

According to Livability, the world can thank Georgia for inventions like Coca-Cola and Vidalia onions.

Are you excited to add your creation to this list? Obtaining a patent could be the first step toward a world-changing enterprise. However, the application process is complex and often frustrating. Uncover what a patent attorney in Columbus can do to help you in the sections below.

What Is a Patent?

Patent law covers the many aspects of securing a patent. There are many legalities to understand, from copyrighting products and advertising, to the Lanham Act. Basically, a patent is a legal protection you secure through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, (USPTO), under intellectual property laws. A patent guarantees the exclusive right to use your intellectual property. It also helps enforce that no other person can make or profit off of something for which you have a patent.

The Georgia Tech PTRC offers ways for inventors in Columbus to conduct their research. Furthermore, you can reach out to the USPTO headquarters for other resources and programs.

What Are the Types of Patents?

There are three different types of patents inventors can apply for. Each patent has stipulations and serves a different purpose.

• Utility Patent – This is the most common type of patent. It is for new machines, processes/functions, and chemicals.
• Design Patent – These patents are for securing a unique and new design of a manufactured item. Design patents protect from entities trying to capitalize on an invention by replicating and producing it.
• Plant Patent – These types of patents are specifically for the invention of new plant varieties. The process must include asexual reproduction, meaning by means other than seeds.

What Can You Patent?

In reality, not everything you create qualifies for patenting. There are only certain types of intellectual property that fall under patent protection. Other intellectual property rights cover different creations. Here is a look at the types of inventions you can patent.

• Process – Also referred to as a method, this is a new way of doing something. 
• Machine – This is any material thing or device that has some sort of output, whether functionality or physical object.
• Manufacture – This is the creation of a physical object.
• Composition of matter – This is a mixture of chemical or biological compounds to create something new.

You can apply for a patent for whichever new device, method, or compound you create by applying to the USPTO. Once they accept your patent application and approve it, you have exclusivity rights to the invention for the next 20 years. However, a design patent period lasts for 14 years.

Difference Between a Provisional and Non-Provisional Patent

Columbus, GA inventors often file a provisional patent first, which is like a way of buying time to finalize an invention. Provisional patents last for a year, and the application process is simple. Once you file a provisional patent, you have exactly a year to convert it to a non-provisional patent. The latter is just another name for the formal and final patent.

How to Apply for a Patent in Columbus GA

The process of applying for a patent in Columbus, Georgia is complex and detailed. You must meet all the requirements and submit every required piece of documentation to secure your patent. You must file your application with the USPTO.

There are five phases to the life cycle of a U.S. patent. The USPTO identifies them as the following:

• Learning about patents through research

• Preparing the application

• Filing and paying fees

• Maintaining the patent until its term expired

According to the current process, you can reapply if an examiner rejects your initial submission. Two rejections mean that you can appeal to the Patent Trial and Appeal Board. While you do not need an attorney, they can make the difference between obtaining your intellectual property and starting over. The associated costs can run into the thousands that hurt the ROI for a fledgling company in Columbus.

When Should I Hire a Qualified Columbus, Georgia Patent Lawyer?

There are multiple reasons to hire a patent attorney. If you want the assurance of having someone acting on your behalf, then Columbus patent law lawyers can help you. He or she can assist with every step of the filing process and ensure that you include all the required information. Additionally, they may be able to guide you when it comes to navigating consumer laws, as well as help you avoid false advertising. This can prove especially valuable if you are trying to merge, or transform your invention into a business.

According to the American Bar Association, you get the most value from hiring an attorney by contacting one early on. The sooner you have legal counsel regarding your patent, the less likely you are to make costly errors.

The USPTO identifies the most common mistakes that can lead to rejection. They include problems like specification or drawing format problems. Or even Application Data Sheet issues, and missing signatures. Still, even if your application is flawless, an attorney can help future-proof the content to maximize its value.

Work with an Experienced Local Patent Attorney in Columbus, Georgia

A patent attorney provides a great service in assisting with securing and managing your patent. You should meet with a qualified Columbus attorney to discuss how he or she can help you. We can even help you connect with an attorney across Georgia state lines.

Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an attorney in your area!