Securing Your Invention with Patent Pending Protection: Provisional Patent Application

At Trenner Law Firm, we understand that your invention is a culmination of your creativity, hard work, and dedication. Protecting your intellectual property is paramount, and one of the first steps to securing your invention is with patent pending protection. Filing a Provisional Patent Application (PPA) is an essential process that grants you “patent pending” status, providing you with a crucial foothold in the patenting process. Our experienced Colorado Patent Attorney, Mark Trenner, and the dedicated team at Trenner Law Firm are here to guide you every step of the way.

What is a Provisional Patent Application?

A Provisional Patent Application (PPA) is a cost-effective and simplified way to establish an early filing date for your invention with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Both a non-provisional (regular) patent application, and a Provisional Patent Application give you patent pending protection. Unlike a non-provisional (regular) patent application, a Provisional Patent Application does not require formal patent claims or an oath or declaration. The Provisional Patent Application provides you with a 12-month window to further develop your invention, assess its market potential, and decide whether to pursue a full non-provisional patent application.

Advantages of Filing a Provisional Patent Application

  • Establishes Early Filing Date: The date you file your Provisional Patent Application becomes the official date of your invention’s filing, which can be critical in the patenting process, especially in a “first-to-file” system.
  • Patent Pending Protection: Once your Provisional Patent Application is filed, you can legally mark your invention as “patent pending,” deterring potential competitors and investors.
  • Cost-Effective: Filing a Provisional Patent Application is generally less expensive than a non-provisional patent application, allowing you to secure your invention at a lower initial cost.
  • Flexibility: The 12-month period gives you time to refine your invention, conduct market research, and seek funding without the immediate pressure of a full patent application.

Steps to Filing a Provisional Patent Application

  1. Document Your Invention: Trenner Law Firm will help you start by thoroughly documenting your invention. This typically ncludes detailed descriptions, drawings, diagrams, and any other relevant information that demonstrates the functionality and uniqueness of your invention.
  2. Prepare the Provisional Patent Application: While the requirements for a Provisional Patent Application are less stringent than those for a non-provisional application, it is essential to ensure that your application is comprehensive and accurately describes your invention. Trenner Law Firm can help with drafting a clear and detailed description, providing any necessary drawings, and identifying any potential modifications or alternatives.
  3. File with the USPTO: Trenner Law Firm can submit your completed Provisional Patent Application to the USPTO along with the required filing fee. Upon filing, you will receive a filing date and a unique application number. This officially starts patent pending protection. You may now mark your invention as “patent pending.”
  4. Develop and Assess: Trenner Law Firm is available for consulting during the 12-month period. You can use this time to further develop your invention, conduct market research, and evaluate its commercial potential. This is also the time to prepare for the next step, filing a non-provisional patent application if you decide to pursue full patent protection.

How Colorado Patent Attorney Mark Trenner and Trenner Law Firm Can Help

At Trenner Law Firm, we pride ourselves on providing personalized and comprehensive patent services tailored to meet the unique needs of each inventor. Here’s how we can assist you in filing a Provisional Patent Application:

  • Expert Guidance: With years of experience in patent law, Colorado Patent Attorney Mark Trenner offers expert advice and guidance throughout the entire process – including getting patent pending protection. From initial consultation to filing, we ensure that your application is thorough and meets all USPTO requirements.
  • Detailed Application Preparation: Trenner Law Firm works closely with you to prepare a detailed and accurate Provisional Patent Application. Our team ensures that all necessary information, descriptions, and drawings are included, maximizing the strength of your application.
  • Strategic Planning: We help you develop a strategic plan for the 12-month period after filing your Provisional Patent Application. This includes advice on further development, market research, and steps to prepare for a non-provisional patent application.
  • Personalized Service: At Trenner Law Firm, we understand that every invention is unique. We provide personalized service to each client, taking the time to understand your invention and your goals. Our commitment is to help you navigate the patenting process with confidence and ease.

Contact Us

Take the first step towards securing your invention by filing a Provisional Patent Application with the help of Trenner Law Firm. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Colorado Patent Attorney Mark Trenner. Let us help you protect your innovation and turn your ideas into reality.