Why is a detailed patent search important?

On behalf of Kaufhold & Dix Patent Law posted in Patent Law on Wednesday, April 26, 2017.

There are many requirements that go along with the patent process. However, it is not just the required steps that can be important ones when looking into getting a patent for an invention. Take patent searches for example.

This is a search typically done prior to filing a patent application. Such a search involves a review of the patents and filings out there to see if a given invention has already been patented/disclosed.

Such a search is not mandated by law. However, it can be a crucial step to take when preparing to possibly file for a patent for an invention. It can help a person understand if seeking a patent would be an available option for them. Such an understanding can help an inventor be properly informed when making the decision of whether to pursue a patent and may help with avoiding potential wastes of effort or resources.

Now, a patent search can seem like a very daunting process, given the amount of patents/disclosures out there and the involved nature of doing a thorough search. An important thing for inventors to know is that they can bring in help for conducting such a search. They can have a skilled patent law attorney lead such a search for them.

Our firm understands how important of an opening step a detailed patent search can be in the patent process. We can spearhead patent searches and provide inventors with an opinion letter outlining our search findings and what they mean for their patent prospects.