Patent Law in Juneau, AK

Obtaining a patent for your invention can take thousands of dollars and several years to accomplish. However, the most well-prepared individuals with sound legal advice can pay only $1,000 – $15,000. In addition, they can avoid mistakes that will make the wait for approval interminably long.

Innovators from Juneau can only accomplish these goals with the appropriate amount of preparation. Accordingly, we provide the guide below to give you a jump start and connect you with a local attorney.

What Is a Patent?

Patent law covers the many aspects of securing a patent. There are many legalities, from copyrighting products and advertising to the Lanham Act.

A patent is a legal protection through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). It guarantees the exclusive right to use your intellectual property. Additionally, it helps enforce that no one can make or profit off of something you patented.

The nearest patent office that can serve inventors in Juneau is the Silicon Valley Regional Office.

What Are the Types of Patents?

There are three different types of patents inventors can pursue. Each patent has stipulations and serves distinct purposes.

• 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 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 a patent. 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 inventions you can patent:

• Process – Also referred to as a method, this is a new way of doing something.
• Machine – This is a material thing or device that creates 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 approve your patent application, 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

Juneau 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 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 Juneau AK

The process of applying for a patent in Juneau, Alaska is complex and detailed. You must meet all the requirements and submit all documentation to the USPTO.

Innovators from Juneau should start by determining if a patent is what they need. In some circumstances, you may have an idea that would be more appropriate as a trademark or copyright. Then, you must conduct research to ensure a similar concept does not exist already. This step is critical enough that the USPTO offers a seven step strategy to make sure you don’t waste your time.

There are three types of patents you may pursue: utility, design, and plant. The nature of your invention will dictate which one fits your needs.

Once you have all of these pieces in place, you can prepare your application for submission. Having an attorney at this stage is crucial. Otherwise, even the tiniest mistake can drastically change the timeline. In addition, your patent attorney will help you navigate the examination process. Assuming that everything goes as planned, you will receive your approval.

When Should I Hire a Qualified Juneau, 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 Juneau patent law lawyers can help you. They 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 counsel can prove especially valuable if you are trying to transform your invention into a business.

Publications like Entrepreneur Magazine agree there are many reasons to consider hiring a patent attorney. The primary advantages they encourage entrepreneurs to consider are time and money savings.

Having an expert hand involved in your pursuit of a patent in Alaska can prevent costly errors. Even minor issues can mean that you have to reapply. In these unfortunate circumstances, Juneau residents must repay the fees and go to the back of the line.

Work with an Experienced Local Patent Attorney in Juneau, Alaska

If you want to apply for a patent, you should have a qualified Juneau attorney to discuss how they 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!