Patent Law in Fairbanks, AK

Fairbanks residents should always be willing to go the extra mile to protect their inventions and intellectual property. While you never want to end up as a cautionary tale, there are bad actors who seek to take advantage of those who are unfamiliar with the patent process. This is where an experienced patent attorney in Fairbanks can help you.

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.

Those residing in Fairbanks who desire to file a patent or trademark for their intellectual property, can avail themselves of the Fairbanks location of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. This is the only U.S. Patent Office located in Alaska In addition, the University of Alaska Fairbanks provides online resources for inventors and entrepreneurs that are looking to protect their property and establish new revenue streams.

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

Fairbanks, AK 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 Fairbanks AK

The process of applying for a patent in Fairbanks, Alaska 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.

The Alaska Department of Commerce advises Fairbanks residents to carefully review the processes set forth by the state before applying for a patent or trademark. You should be certain that your invention is new and does not hold an existing patent. You should review costs, and be certain that your invention meets the prerequisites for establishing a patent. These are all things that you should discuss with an experienced patent attorney in Fairbanks.

According to GlobeNewsWire, a newly patented invention could change the landscape of daily life for all those living in colder climates. This new invention allows people to create a seal around windows to fix them, even in cold weather. The seal not only provides protection, but also insulation that keeps in heat and rebuffs wind.

When Should I Hire a Qualified Fairbanks, Alaska Patent Lawyer?

There are multiple reasons to hire a patent attorney. If you want the assurance of having someone acting on your behalf, then Fairbanks 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.

The State Bar of Alaska encourages all Fairbanks residents seeking a patent to be educated on the difference between a patent attorney and a patent agent. A patent agent may be versed in filing for patents, however, he or she has no right to give legal advice. They are also unable to defend you if someone encroaches on your intellectual property. It is always in your best interest to have a skilled Fairbanks patent attorney by your side when facing these matters.

If you encounter bad actors attempting to take something you’ve created, this can feel overwhelming and even defeating. However, rest assured if you take your case to court and win, you may be entitled to monetary compensation along with the rights to your intellectual property. You should never allow bad faith actors to steal your hard work.

Work with an Experienced Local Patent Attorney in Fairbanks, Alaska

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

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