It is possible to obtain a patent without the assistance of an attorney, or “pro se,” and many inventors have done so. Patent examiners are required to render assistance to inventors who apply for patents pro se.
But successfully prosecuting a patent – even for a relatively simple invention – is no easy task. Many inventors who start out with the intent of prosecuting their own patents eventually realize it is well worth the money to hire an attorney. USPTO patent examiners see many pro se applications that reveal a lack of understanding of how the system works. Their handbooks even contain specific language used to urge these inventors to seek representation. It reads, in part, “[T]he value of a patent is largely dependent upon skilled preparation and prosecution.”
We could not agree more. A patent is only as good as the strength of the claims made within it. Nearly all initial patent applications have some claims rejected. Claims need to be broad enough to adequately protect an invention and discourage infringement, but narrow enough to meet patent examiners’ exacting standards.
At Brooks Acordia IP Law, we know how to prepare applications so that they conform to required standards and contain solid, patentable claims. Additionally, when applications hit the inevitable speed bumps, we draw on our extensive experience to power through and obtain the best patent possible.