Client Resources

Purpose: This two-page PDF article helps entrepreneurs and startups answer the frequently asked question “Should I file a provisional patent application for my invention?” and provides guidance on how to do it effectively.

Comments: Provisional patent applications strike many entrepreneurs and startups as a great idea—patent protection on the cheap that you don’t even need an attorney for. The reality is that provisional applications cost time, money, and patent term and should really only be used as a last resort.

January 2010 Resource of the Month

Last Modified: January 31, 2010

 

Purpose: Describe the process of getting a U.S. patent, including preparation for filing, preparation of the patent application, and a summary of the filing and examination process. It provides clients with an overview of the process before they decide to pursue a patent application.

Comments: The article is a practical overview of the U.S. patent process intended for new inventors and entrepreneurs. It should generally be read in conjunction with How to Sell Your Invention. For the cost of my patent services, please see Fixed Fee Services.

December 2009 Resource of the Month

Last Modified December 1, 2009

 

Purpose: Two-page PDF article to provide a simple checklist of the things you need to setup your business

Comments: The article identifies 10 things you need to setup your business and some ideas on how to establish the credibility of your newly formed business as quickly as possible.  

November 2009 Resource of the Month.

Last modified: October 21, 2009

 

 

Purpose: Two-page PDF article to introduce the concept of Virtual In-House Counsel services
Comments: The article walks through the basics of what in-house counsel do and how you can use a virtual attorney to provide and manage cost effective legal services for your growing business.  

October 2009 Resource of the Month.

Last modified: October 15, 2009

 

Purpose: Provide 2 page PDF article on a process for turning your invention into a product (and getting patent protection along the way).

Comments: Introductory article to help entrepreneurs and independent inventors think about patent protection as one part of a much larger commitment to developing and commercializing a new product or service.  An alternate title might be, "Are You Ready to Build a Business Around Your Invention?"

Last modified: September 30, 2009

 

Purpose: This two-page PDF article provides entrepreneurs and business owners with a process for selecting and working with an attorney.
Comments: This article is based on my experience selecting and managing outside attorneys as an in-house counsel and provided to help with the frequently asked question, “How do I find a good attorney?”

Last Updated December 16, 2009

 

Purpose: Describe professional background in a one page PDF
Comments: This resource may seem like shameless self-promotion, but it is frequently helpful for clients and potential clients to have a take away that they can refer to when making decisions or explaining my engagement to business partners, investors, etc.

Last Modified: September 30, 2009

 

Purpose: Provide a list of example fixed fee legal projects with prices in a PDF
Comments: Example projects and pricing help give clients a reference point for selecting projects or thinking about how I might be able to help with their legal needs.  The General Business Counseling, Intellectual Property, Commercial Contracts, and Business Formation and Startup projects included are not exhaustive and clients should contact me to discuss their particular needs and a custom project quote.

Last Modified: October 14, 2009

 

Resource Of The Month

Should I File a Provisional Patent Application?

 

The Situation:

You have a prototype of your invention that works. You want patent protection, but you don’t have enough money to file for a full utility patent yet. Your next step is to start talking to potential customers, suppliers, and investors to sound out the market, develop your business plan, and hopefully get some money in the door. Is it worth filing a provisional patent application?

 

This Client Resource is a 2 page PDF article to help entrepreneurs and startups consider whether filing a provisional patent application makes sense and how to do it effectively. To go directly to the PDF rather than the landing page, click here.