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Patent Information
A patent is a government grant that confers upon the creator of an invention the sole right to make, use, and sell that invention for a set period of time. Michael Kroll has obtained over 1900 patents in his 30+ year career.
The following are answers to typical questions new inventors have about patents.
Who can get a patent?
whoever invents or discovers any new and useful process, machine, manufacture or composition of matter or any new and useful improvement thereof may obtain a patent
What types of items can be protected?
Typical Utility Patent Items: tools, devices, machines, computer programs, games, processes, formulas, internet devices, electronic, chemical and business methods, etc.
Typical Design Patent Items: shapes of articles, dolls, characters, etc.
How long does a patent last?
Utility Patent: 20 years from initial filing date (not renewable)
Design Patent: 14 years from date of granted patent (not renewable)
How much does it cost to obtain a patent?
Typical Utility Patent Fees:
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$7,650
This includes filing fee, professional drawings & technical specifications. (internet, electronic, chemical and business methods are normally higher)
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$750
For an optional worldwide patent search which is suggested & advisable. Provided that we have conducted a patent search with a "good" or "excellent" rating we will refund the cost of the patent application if we are unable to obtain a patent for your invention.
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Additional fees not included in above:
- Amendments, if required: $0 - 3,500 (each)
- Printing and issue fee: $1,555 utility; $1,230 design
- Maintenance fees due for utility patent (years after issue): 3 to 3 1/2: $840, 7 to 7 1/2: $1590 and 11 to 11 1/2: $2405
- Enforcement of Patent, Trademark or Copyright
- Above typical fees subject to conformation after receipt of client's disclosure
- Internet, electronic, chemical and business methods are normally higher
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Design Patent Fees:
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$1,670 (a design patent only protects the appearance of an item)
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If you are interested in obtaining patent protection for an invention you can request our free brochure, submit your invention online or call us to start the process.
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