How do I get a patent in the state of Maine?

Answer 1

It does not matter where you live, the process of filing for and obtaining the patent would be the same. You need to file with the United States Patent Office in Alexandria, Virginia. This is done by mail, and would be done by mail whether you hire a patent attorney or agent, or whether you decide to do it yourself.

Normally, the first step is to conduct a patent search to see if there is anything out there that would be to close to your invention. A search helps an inventor decide whether it makes sense to move forward. A search also better helps inventors know what is out there so that when they do describe their own inventions they can do it with an eye toward particularly pointing out what makes the invention unique in view of other inventions. A search is not required, but if you are trying to start the process right it is always a wise first step. For information on how to conduct your own patent search see:

http://www.ipwatchdog.com/patent_search_101.html

The next step would be (or if you decide not to do a search the first step would be) to file some type of patent application. Most individual inventors find a provisional application to be best to start. This will keep your costs down, but provide you with a patent pending, which protects you in several ways. First, it locks in your filing date, which is extremely important. Although in the US we are what is called a first to invent nation, meaning the patent goes to the first to invent, procedurally there is a significant benefit to being the first to file an application. Second, there are certain time tables associated with patent law, some of which act to bar your ability to apply for a patent. These bars generally speaking prevent you from applying for a patent more than 12 months after you or others have done certain things, such as sold a product related to the invention. Because others can create a bar without your knowledge it is important to file an application as soon as reasonably possible. You will still need to file a non-provisional within 12 months, but filing a provisional application buys you time to determine whether moving forward with the expense makes sense. For informationon provisional patents see:

http://www.ipwatchdog.com/provisional_patents.html

Alternatively, you could just start with a non-provisional application, which is an application that will ultimately lead to an issued patent, assuming the invention is patentable. For information on non-provisional patent applications see:

http://www.ipwatchdog.com/nonprovisional.html

If you want to work with a patent attorney you can find the names of patent attorneys in your area (although working with someone in your area is not required) by going to the Patent Office website at:

http://des.uspto.gov/OEDCI/

If you want to do it yourself there are several ways to proceed. IPWatchdog.com works with inventors to help them create and file their own patent application at a greatly reduced cost. You could also get a copy of the book Patent It Yourself, which may be helpful.

Answer 2

Patents are done on a national basis.

NOLO is a great, free informational site. Also, be sure to read what the USPTO (United States Patent & Trademark Office) has to say about patents.

Associations may be a good avenue to explore. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links.

Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can. Here are some book titles that are relevant:

Getting a Patent:
* Patent It Yourself (11th Edition) by David Pressman
* Patents and How to Get One : A Practical Handbook by U.S. Department of Commerce
* How To Make Patent Drawings Yourself: A Patent It Yourself Companion by Jack Lo
* The Inventor's Notebook: A Patent It Yourself Companion by Fred E. Grissom

There are plenty of free informational resources out there. Check the source box for links to articles.

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!

Answer 3

WWW.mainepatent.org