The Key Stages of the Patent Examination Process
Turning an invention into a patent takes time, strategy, and a clear understanding of the steps involved. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) examines each application through a structured review process that can span months or even years. Knowing what happens at each stage—from filing to final decision—can help inventors avoid...
Global IP and Business Strategies: Protecting Your Intellectual Property in China, Korea and India
In today’s globalized economy, protecting your intellectual property (IP) is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge, especially in rapidly evolving markets like China, Korea, and India....
Understanding the Role of a Patent Examiner
When you submit a patent application, it doesn’t just sit on a shelf. It lands on the desk of a real person—a patent examiner—whose job is to review your invention and decide if it meets the requirements for a U.S. patent. Knowing how examiners work can help you better understand the process...
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Patent Appeal
When your patent application is denied, you still have options. One of them is filing a patent appeal with the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB). But before you take that next step, it’s essential to understand that appealing a rejection is not the same as filing the original application....
Understanding the Role of the MPEP in Patent Examinations
Applying for a patent can feel overwhelming, especially when you're not sure how decisions are made behind the scenes. One of the key resources examiners use to evaluate patent applications is the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure or MPEP. While this manual might not be well-known outside patent law circles, it plays...
Can I Obtain a Patent in the U.S. if It’s Already Patented Overseas?
Securing patent protection in one country doesn’t automatically grant you rights in another. If you’ve already patented your invention overseas, you may still be eligible for a U.S. patent, but the process depends on timing and specific legal requirements. International agreements give inventors the opportunity to extend protection, but missing deadlines or...
Mistakes to Avoid When Renewing Your Trademark
Your trademark represents your brand’s identity, setting you apart from competitors and building trust with customers. But owning a trademark isn’t a one-time process—it requires maintenance. If you don’t renew it properly, you could lose your rights, forcing you to start over or risk another business claiming your mark. The renewal process...
How to Tap into the Power of Storytelling for Entrepreneurial Success
How to Tap into the Power of Storytelling for Entrepreneurial Success
Every entrepreneur has a back story. Your personal narrative helps people connect with you, and therefore your company,...
How to Search for Potential Trademark Infringements Before It’s Too Late
A strong trademark sets your brand apart, but that protection only works if no one else is using something too similar. Without regular searches, you could miss signs of infringement—leaving your business vulnerable to legal disputes or even losing the right to your own name. Trademarks aren’t just about securing registration; they...
Can Patents Be Revoked?
A patent gives you exclusive rights to your invention, but those rights aren’t always permanent. Mistakes in the application, missed payments, or legal challenges can lead to revocation. Sometimes, competitors or third parties seek to invalidate a patent if they believe it was improperly granted. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)...