What Are the Different Types of Patents in New Jersey?
When you come up with an idea, it can be incredibly exciting. However, before you rush to bring your idea to life, it’s important to understand that protecting yourself and your idea is critical. As such, you may want to consider a patent. However, there are a few different types of patents, so understanding how they differ and which one is right for you is an imperative part of this process. If you’ve considered creating a patent for your product or process, the following blog explores what you should know about your options and why working with a Bergen County, NJ patent attorney is in your best interest during these complicated matters.
What Are Patents And What Are the Different Types?
When you invent something, it will typically fall under one of three main categories. These include:
- Utility patents: This is the most common type of patent, as it serves to explain the makings and use of a new product, process, or system. You can also create patents for additions to already existing products, so long as it is helpful to those who would use the product.
- Design patents: A design patent serves to protect the visual appearance of an object, such as shape or other distinguishing features. This helps ensure that others cannot use the same design to package a different product as a means of confusing consumers. For example, if you create a new soda with a uniquely shaped bottle, you can patent it to protect the design of the bottle.
- Plant patents: A plant patent, as the name suggests, is applied to new plants that have been produced asexually. As such, if you have discovered a new way to cultivate a plant, you can patent it. It should be noted that methods involving genetic modification are not included in these patents, as the focus is on standard horticulture.
How Do I Apply for a Patent?
To apply for a patent, you may first want to conduct a patent search to discover if the invention you would like to process has already been patented. If not, you may continue to file your application using the forms provided by the United States Patent Office. It should be noted that applying for a patent can be expensive, ranging anywhere from a few thousand dollars up to $20,000.
Unfortunately, there is a considerable amount of work that goes into applying for a patent, including strict rules and requirements about what information must be included when submitting the application for a new patent. Additionally, this is a pricey process, and making errors can not only delay this process but may result in the denial of an otherwise approvable patent. As such, it’s strongly recommended that you obtain the assistance of an experienced attorney to help guide you through this process.
When you are ready to turn your ideas into reality, the team at the Law Offices of Richard E. Novak, LLC is ready to help. We understand how complicated the legal aspects of this process can be, which is why we are dedicated to guiding you through this process. Our goal is to help bring your visions to life. Contact us today to get started on your patent application.