Generally, the process of obtaining patent protection begins with a patent search, through which it is better determined whether there are any other similar inventions that have already been patented or applied for. Performing a patent search is a completely optional step, as there is no requirement for inventors to proactively seek out potential prior art. As such, many clients opt to skip the patent search step and instead jump right into a patent application. However, other clients find this service extremely helpful, as it both gives us a good predictor of the chances of obtaining a patent (including how broad or narrow of a patent) as well as helps us strategize on how broadly or narrowly to draft the associated patent application on your invention. The usefulness of a patent search varies from situation to situation, but we would be happy to discuss that decision with you further.

A patent search usually focuses on previously filed patents and published patent applications, both in the USPTO database and through certain international databases (such as PCT and EPO). While our patent searches typically do not include Internet searches or searching other sources of "non-patent literature" (due to the prohibitive costs involved), it is usually the case that a search of prior patents and published patent applications will turn up the best evidence (if any) of earlier conception of the same or similar subject matter.

As an alternative or preliminary step, we encourage you to perform your own search to the best of your abilities first, using websites such as Google Patents or the USPTO Database. These will not be exhaustive, by any means; but they are a great first step that you can do yourself for free to try and "knock out" your invention.

If, after you perform your own search, you are unable to find anything similar to your invention, or even if you do and you now need help in determining whether your invention is potentially patentable in light of the discovered prior art, feel free to call 888-789-5789 or email us to schedule your FREE initial consultation, during which we can assist you further and answer any follow-up questions that you may have.