When you believe that you have an idea that may be eligible to obtain a patent, there are a lot of steps that must be taken. One of the most important steps that must be taken in this process is to conduct a patent search. The United States Patent and Trademark Office has a database that lists all of the patents that are currently in existence. If you fail to conduct a patent search before you file your application, you may waste time and money on an endeavor that will ultimately not be accepted.

Before you begin the patent application process, you will have to determine what category your patent falls into. There are three types of patents. Utility patents, design patents, and plant patents. These different patents require you to have a novel idea that isn’t considered obvious. If a similar patent already exists, you will likely not be granted the patent. There are a number of other qualifications that go into obtaining a patent.

There are many resources that can be utilized to prevent you from wasting time and money on a patent that has already been approved by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. You can easily go online and search this database at the early stages of creating your invention to know what your possibilities of success might be. If you have an idea for a patent, you should contact an experienced business law or intellectual property attorney who can help walk you through this process.

The Salvo Law Firm, P.C. is a legal resource for the people of New York and New Jersey. If you need quality services from an experienced and effective business law attorney, contact our office for a consultation.