"Patent Services" typically refers to a range of professional support offerings related to patents and intellectual property. These services can be provided by law firms, IP consultants, patent agents, or specialized companies. Here's a breakdown of common patent services:
🔍 1. Patent Search & Analysis
- Prior Art Search: Identifying existing patents or publications that may impact patentability.
- Freedom to Operate (FTO) Search: Checking if your product infringes existing patents.
- Patentability Assessment: Determining if your invention meets the criteria for patent protection (novelty, non-obviousness, utility).
- Invalidity Search: Finding prior art to challenge a competitor’s patent.
📝 2. Patent Drafting and Filing
- Provisional Patent Application: A temporary application to secure a filing date.
- Utility Patent Application: Full application with claims, descriptions, and drawings.
- Design Patent Application: Protects ornamental design aspects of products.
- International Applications: Filing under the PCT (Patent Cooperation Treaty) or regional systems (e.g., EPO).
⚖️ 3. Patent Prosecution
- Office Action Response: Replying to objections or rejections from the patent office.
- Claim Amendments: Adjusting the scope of claims during prosecution.
- Interview with Examiners: Strategizing to overcome objections with patent office staff.
📊 4. Patent Strategy & Portfolio Management
- Portfolio Building: Developing a set of patents to protect core technology.
- Filing Strategy: Prioritizing jurisdictions and types of filings based on business goals.
- Patent Valuation: Estimating the commercial worth of a patent or portfolio.
💼 5. Patent Commercialization
- Licensing Support: Drafting agreements to license patents to others.
- Patent Sales: Transferring ownership for a fee.
- Tech Transfer Assistance: Helping universities/startups commercialize patented inventions.
🔐 6. Patent Enforcement & Litigation
- Infringement Analysis: Determining if a competitor is violating your patent.
- Litigation Support: Engaging in or defending against lawsuits.
- Alternative Dispute Resolution: Settling patent disputes outside court (e.g., arbitration).
📁 7. Patent Maintenance and Docketing
- Renewals and Maintenance Fees: Keeping patents alive by timely payment.
- Docket Management: Tracking deadlines and legal status of applications.
Would you like help identifying which of these services fits your project or business needs?