We raise our children to believe that they are unique. That they are one of a kind. That they can change the world with their individual vision. As teenagers we also convince them that they need to listen to their hearts and pursue their own path. Again, that they are individuals who can change the world. Even as adults we are often inspired by the fact that our unique ideas will shape the future.
And while these ideas are all well and good, the reality is that even our most inspired ideas often overlap with the ideas of others. We create visions in our minds that nearly mirror the work that others have done. Unfortunately, in most cases the credit for even the grandest idea only belongs to one person. That person is the individual who took the time to understand the patent process. In fact, even if you were the first person to conceive the greatest product on the planet, if you did not work with patent attorneys to claim that product as your own, you will not get the recognition that you deserve. For this reason, there are many scientists, product developers, and researchers who make it their job to understand everything there is to know about the patent process.
Patent Lawyers Work with Their Clients to Protect Product Designs
From patent lawyers in Colorado who are trying to help growers protect their latest products to patent lawyers in Houston who work closely with oil rig companies, it is important to know that you want to make certain that you have plans in place to protect the products that you develop. Consider some of these other facts and figures about patent and trademark processes and the role that they play in the lives of individuals and the country as well:
- A new patent has a term of approximately 20 years from the filing date of the application.
- The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) receives more than 500,000 patent applications every year.
- The first patent law was used more than 228 years ago.
- Patents are strongly utilized across 12 industries, according to a recent survey.
- In the 12 industries where patents are being used successfully, 50% or more inventions that meet the criteria for becoming patented are also being successfully patented.
- In order to be a qualified patent material, an invention must meet criteria outlined on the USPTO site. Not everything, of course can be patented, but the qualifications for the patent process are sufficiently broad to encompass nearly any original invention.
Parents and teachers can continue to inspire children of any age that they are unique individuals. And while there are many adults who embrace their individual talents and ideas, it you want to get credit or earn profit from your unique ideas, you have to follow the patent process outlined by the USPTO.
