When preparing for your first patent application, many people have concerns such as “Do I need to go through a patent attorney?” or “How much will it cost?” It can feel like a daunting and complicated process, but if you understand the key points and work with an expert, it’s not as difficult as it may seem. This article will break down the patent application process into five stages, clearly outlining what you need to prepare and what will be handled by the patent attorney.
Stage 1: Organize Your Idea – Clearly Communicate the Core to the Patent Attorney
The success of a patent application often hinges on how accurately you convey the essence of your technology. Based on materials such as your idea notebooks, product plans, internal reports, etc., explain the purpose of your invention, its differences from existing technologies, and how it works. Providing diagrams, algorithms, flowcharts, etc., will help communicate the technology more clearly. The patent attorney will work with you to clarify the idea and lay the foundation for drafting the patent specification.
Stage 2: Prior Art Search – Check if Your Idea is New
Based on the technology details you provide, the patent attorney will conduct a search to determine whether your idea has already been disclosed. This process helps assess whether the invention can be patented and, if similar technologies exist, the differences or improvements needed. Since conducting this search on your own can be challenging, the patent attorney will use specialized search systems. The results of this search are critical in determining the filing strategy and in drafting the patent specification.
Stage 3: Drafting the Application – Patent Attorney Handles the Technical Documentation
Drafting the application is a key task for the patent attorney, and you do not need to handle this yourself. The patent attorney will prepare the documents, including the description of the invention, claims, diagrams, and abstract, and submit them to the patent office after your review. The claims, which define the scope of the patent’s protection, should be carefully reviewed by you. The patent attorney will also advise on matters such as divisional applications and whether to file internationally based on your business strategy.
Stage 4: Responding to the Examination – Patent Attorney Handles the Communication with the Patent Office
During the examination process, the patent office will assess novelty, inventiveness, and industrial applicability. The office may send you office actions or requests for amendments. These requests typically occur once, and the patent attorney will take responsibility for handling them. The analysis of the office’s comments, strategy formulation, and drafting responses and amendments will be done in consultation with you. Additional fees may apply for this response process.
Stage 5: Maintenance After Registration – Ongoing Management for Long-Term Protection
After a patent is granted, it needs to be renewed periodically (annual fees must be paid) to maintain its effectiveness. Our office monitors the renewal deadlines and offers guidance and agency services to ensure that the patent remains active without lapsing. Additionally, registered patents can be used in various ways as practical assets for your business:
- Proof of technological capability when seeking investment
- Technology transfer or licensing agreements
- Government support programs, technology value assessments
- Collateral for loans or equity contributions
A patent is not just a legal tool to protect technology; it is an asset that can be used in various ways for business purposes.
Conclusion
Preparing a patent application with an expert is not as difficult as it seems. You simply need to share the core details of your technology and organize any existing documents. The complex procedures and responses will be handled by us. A patent is the first step in protecting your valuable idea and turning your technology into an asset. We hope this article helps you get started.
👉 [Read the full blog post – A detailed guide to the 5 steps of patent application]
