i want to get a patent for an idea that i have i dont know where to get started..can anybody help me??

Answer 1

You can research to see if it is already patented first by searching at www.uspto.gov.

Then first do a "Poor Mans Patent" by writing down your idea and mailing it to yourself in a sealed envelope that you DO NOT OPEN. To ensure that it is not accidentally delivered to the wrong place thus putting your idea into the hands of someone else, send it certified return receipt. Cost is $4.48. That way you will have to sign for it. This will date your idea while you are working with the patent attorney and also keep anyone who you HAVE to tell about the idea from taking it without recourse.

See a patent attorney. They will research it again, which will cost you (I paid $600 for that about 2 years ago) and then they will file it for you (cost unknown). If you need to, maybe you can find one that will let you make payments.

Good Luck.

Answer 2

Here are some steps you need to take:

1. Consult a patent lawyer and check if your idea can be patented.
2. Keep extensive records tracking the development of your idea.
3. Conduct an extensive research to find out if there are similar patents.
4. Document where, how and to whom you showed your idea.
5. Do your own market research if your idea is marketable
6. Explore the possibility of developing the product yourself, or licensing someone else to make the product for you.

Here are some books that can help you:

From Patent to Profit by Bob De Matteis
Protecting Your #1 Asset : Creating Fortunes from Your Ideas : An Intellectual Property Handbook
Patents and How to Get One : A Practical Handbook
How to Register Your Own Trademark : With Forms
Patent It Yourself
Protecting Your Ideas : The Inventor's Guide to Patents

Answer 3

Get a patent attorney. I have a friend who is one in San Antonio. If you're near here, let me know.

Answer 4

http://www.uspto.gov/

this is the official patent office website.

Answer 5

what is your idea?