Patent Lawyers
Patents give inventors exclusive rights, preventing others from replication or profiting from their creations without consent. Successfully applying for a patent can be a complex, time-consuming process, involving lots of paperwork.
At Lawhive, our network of patent lawyers is on hand to support you at every stage of your patent journey from drafting detailed descriptions to filing your application with the Intellectual Property Office.
Should you need them to, they can also represent you in patent disputes and help you enforce your rights if someone does attempt to profit from your inventions without your consent.
To get started in applying for a patent with the support of a specialist lawyer, contact our Legal Assessment Team for a free consultation call now.
What is a patent?
A patent is a legal document that grants the owner exclusive rights to their invention and stops others from making, using, or selling it without permission for a specific amount of time.
What can be patented?
You can patent inventions that are new, inventive, and applicable, such as products, processes, methods, or software with a technical purpose.
You can't patent things like artistic works, ways of doing business, medical treatments, or software with a non-technical purpose.
If you're unsure whether or not your invention can be patented, a commercial solicitor can provide personalised advice.
How long does a patent last?
A patent lasts 5 years. After that, you have to renew it every year, up to a maximum of 20 years.
Should I apply for a patent?
A patent protects your invention, giving you control over its use and commercialisation. It can also enhance your credibility and attract investors or potential buyers.
But you should only apply if you're confident your invention doesn't already exist and you can commit both the time and money to the application process.
How do I apply for a patent?
The patent application process involves:
Preparing detailed documents describing your invention including technical features to be protected and a summary of important technical aspects.
Filing these documents with the Intellectual Property Office and paying the fee.
Asking the IPO to check if your invention is new and inventive.
After you submit your application to the Intellectual Property Office (IPO), they'll conduct a basic check and then perform a search to confirm if your invention is new and inventive.
Your application will be published, and a substantive examination will be carried out.
When your patent is granted, you'll receive a certificate. However, sometimes the IPO may suggest you make certain changes before granting your patent.
How much does it cost to apply for a patent?
The minimum cost to apply for a patent is £310, which covers:
Filing your application
Carrying out searches within 12 months of filing your application
A substantive examination.
There may be additional costs if, for example, you pay for filing your application or the paperwork you submit goes over a certain amount.
The cost for a specialist patent lawyer to help with your application depends on many factors including the complexity and specific requirements of the case. On average it is expected to range from £375-£500 but in some cases, it could cost as much as £573.