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Patents

Patents provide businesses, entrepreneurs and inventors with a means to protect a new product, process, device, design, or formula.

At Hovey Williams, we help our clients obtain and maintain all types of patents. We also work closely with our clients to determine patent validity, while avoiding threats of infringement, to ensure your rights are fully protected. Without patent protection, your invention is at risk of being copied — or even patented — by a competitor.

Can my idea be patented?

There are three main criteria for patentability:

  • Is it new?
  • Is it nonobvious?
  • Is it useful?

Determining if a creation or idea fits these criteria is a complex process involving careful research and review. It also requires a thorough legal understanding of terms of art such as what it means for something to be “nonobvious.”

Leave the legalese to us, so you can put your energy toward your ideas.

How to patent an idea

After your idea is verified as patentable, we will prepare and file your initial application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). We also handle international patent filings through our vast network of foreign associates across the globe.

Once filed, a patent examiner will review your application and either approve or deny it. In most cases of denial, the examiner’s response will include an “office action” explaining why an application has been denied. Our attorneys will work with you to respond to these office actions to move your patent application to an allowance.

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  • Kansas City-based, globally trusted

    From our office in Greater Kansas City, Hovey Williams LLP represents clients locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally

  • Can Your Idea Be Patented?

    There are three main criteria for patentability: Is it new? Is it nonobvious? Is it useful?

We can help you protect your invention.

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We’re As Passionate As You Are

You want to work with someone who is as passionate about your innovative ideas as you are. We bring that passion to every case we work on.

 

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