In the world of intellectual property, inventorship is a critical and often misunderstood concept. Determining who qualifies as an inventor on a patent is not just a matter of recognition—it carries significant legal and ownership implications. Getting it wrong can lead to costly disputes, loss of patent rights, or even invalidation of the patent itself. […]
Widerman Malek Law Blog
Can You Patent Artificial Intelligence?
Of all the rapidly evolving fields of technology, artificial intelligence (AI) has become a major cornerstone of innovation. As AI systems continue to grow in usage, implementation, and sophistication, the question arises: can you patent artificial intelligence? The answer is yes, but with a few notable nuances. What is a Patent and Who Can Get […]
Understanding United States Patents and Their Benefits to Businesses
In the changing world of innovation and technology, protecting intellectual property is a necessity for maintaining a competitive edge. One of the primary mechanisms for securing such protection is through patents. In the United States, patents are granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). They provide inventors and businesses with exclusive rights […]
USPTO Unveils Major Fee Overhaul for 2025: New Charges and Increases to Impact Patent Prosecution Strategies
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is set to implement a significant overhaul of its fee structure for the fiscal year 2025. This move, aimed at optimizing the service provided to American innovators, includes the introduction of new fees and an increase in existing ones. These fee increases could alter prosecution and timing […]
WHEN TO CONSULT WITH A PATENT ATTORNEY: TIMING IS EVERYTHING
For small businesses seeking to differentiate themselves, patentable intellectual property can be a cornerstone for success. Whether it’s a groundbreaking product design, innovative software, or a unique process, patenting your intellectual property is crucial. But when should small business owners pull the trigger and consult with a patent attorney to secure those rights? Let’s discuss […]
Decrease in Patent Cooperation Treaty Fees
In the world we live in with record inflation and price increases, the United States Patent and Trademark Office has announced that the fees associated with certain filings for the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) have decreased effective January 1, 2023. The complete US Patent Office fee schedule can be found here. The specific fees that […]
International Patent Application Strategies
There are different standards in the United States regarding what is patentable and not compared to foreign jurisdictions, notably in the Japanese and European Patent offices. The decision to pursue foreign protection is not just about what markets you are interested in but also about the viability of getting protection in those markets. In the […]
Design Patents: All You Need to Know
What Is a Design Patent? A design patent covers only the ornamental design of an object of manufacture. This means essentially that the design patent protects the appearance of a product. And to be eligible for a design patent, the object’s appearance must be novel and non-obvious. So, there must be something unique about the […]
How to Mitigate Intellectual Property Infringement
When it comes to Intellectual Property, it is essential to consider your options and legal protection. There are many ways individuals can intentionally or unintentionally interfere with your Intellectual Property. Helpful hints to avoid interference by others: Have a Trademark registered for your desired brand’s name, logo, or design to ensure they are secured and […]
Why are Patents Important? Protecting Your Intellectual Property
Many people ask, “Are patents worth getting and what substantial benefits do they offer?” The answer is unequivocally, yes. The advantages of obtaining a patent almost always outweigh the potential complications that may arise if one is not secured. Especially if you plan to manufacture and sell your product on your own, a patent helps […]
