When inventors consult with a patent attorney (Aheinze),they often face a misunderstanding based on the commonly held stereotype of a “crazy inventor.” This understanding is the one that a minority of inventors in the industry agree upon. And yet,minorities can be a huge influence on majorities.
In short,to get solid representation from your patent attorney of choice,and to receive the most favorable terms, you can’t look like a crazy inventor. Sure,even an insatiable “mad scientist” could eventually find the perfect patent attorney after talking with so many. But wouldn’t you rather work with your first choice for a lawyer?
Keep in mind that patent experts are often wary of dealing with independent inventors. Knowledge is key to being better prepared – and above all,you will want to come to every meeting prepared.
One of the greatest obstacles for patent lawyers is when their client can’t or won’t help them. Whether it’s inability to help ( such as language barriers),or unavailability (ie,never available) who tries so hard to be ‘helpful’ that the attorney can’t make head or tail of what they’re facing and hearing.
The patent lawyer (read more at The Risks of Expiring Patents - Aheinze) is here to represent you. They are not the inventor. If you really have a unique invention,you know the invention better than anyone else. Your relationship with the patent attorney begins with the first meeting. The first impression is the strongest,so we can’t repeat this enough: you must come well prepared.
Inventions come in all shapes and sizes,so it is difficult to provide a broad consensus of what exactly you need to prepare when you’re coming to the meeting.
However,we can provide information on certain key points that the patent attorney needs to know,regardless of the type of invention:
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The basic configuration of the invention
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Optional upgrades to the invention
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Diagrams and pictures. When it comes to key aspects of the invention,every picture tells a story.
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If you have artistic skills,use line drawings as much as possible. They are an effective way of breaking down the invention into greater detail,particularly when you can create an “exploded-view” line drawing.
Prepare a package of detailed information on your invention,both written and with diagrams.
Your patent attorney will be much more highly likely to realize that you’re taking your invention seriously. It makes their job easier: they don’t have to sort out unorganized information,and it creates more value in the relationship.
Summary of Patent Law Tips
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Come prepared
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Present your invention coherently
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Prepare a detailed written description of your invention
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Take pictures – and if possible,draw line diagrams – that show the most important,unique features of your invention
Follow these tips,and you will find it much easier to work with the patent attorney you want to work with,rather than one who is desperate.
If this initial process of sufficiently describing your invention may seem somewhat intimidating,know that as an independent inventor there is help. There are patent attorneys who can advise you on the process. Houston Patent Attorney has advised inventors in putting together a strong patent package.