How useful is a provisional patent?

A provisional patent application also provides a lower-cost first patent filing. A provisional patent application also provides the means to establish an early effective filing date in a later filed non-provisional patent application.

Can a provisional patent be used to protect an invention?

Provisional Patent Applications are common practice, and certainly nothing to be frightened by. They are extremely useful when it comes to obtaining legal protection for your initial invention concept while you work your way to a finished product.

Can a patent be used to protect an idea?

Inventions can be patented. Ideas cannot be patented. So, you do not have an idea, you have an invention, or you will have an invention if you continue on your journey and don’t give up. You just need to get from the idea that inevitably begins the process to an invention, which is the culmination of the innovation part of the journey.

What’s the best way to protect your invention?

Patent protection. One of the most suitable ways to protect your idea is to apply for a patent. A patent is a formal monopoly on your invention that excludes everyone else from being able to use, copy, license, sell or recreate your invention without your permission.

What do you need to apply for a nonprovisional patent?

The process of applying for a nonprovisional patent requires you to provide detailed information including all the inventor’s names, a description of the invention including the methods, processes, designs and as much detail as you can about your invention to the patent office and this information will be formally registered and made public.

Can a provisional patent application become a patent?

A provisional patent application itself is neither a patent nor will it mature into a patent. To be granted a patent, you will have to file a non-provisional patent application. Consider the provisional patent application a stepping stone in the process.

What does a provisional patent protect-UpCounsel?

With no formalities required for a provisional patent application, a patent attorney doesn’t have to work as many hours, and in turn, your attorney fees will not be as high. A provisional patent application itself is neither a patent nor will it mature into a patent.