Throughout the world, many patents are successfully filed each year. That being said, the popularity of the internet has certainly caused technological patents to become increasingly popular. In fact, statistics from 2016 found that digital communication technology was the most popular type of international patent application. No matter what type of patent you’re thinking of filing, it’s important you follow through with this process. With that in mind, here are three dangers associated with not filing a patent.
- Someone Steals Your Idea
One of the most important reasons to secure a patent is to protect your idea from others. That being said, it’s important to know that a patent will not give you lifetime ownership of an invention. For instance, plant and utility patents typically expire within 20 years. However, design patents have an earlier expiration date of only 14 years. - Another Company Secures the Rights
While it might sound strange, situations have happened where an invention is created and goes to market with no patent. Although these situations are rare, it’s likely that competing companies will leap at the chance to acquire rights to an invention with no previous patent. In these cases, the original inventor will be out of luck. Therefore, it’s wise to consider looking into contacting patent attorneys. A patent lawyer can help ensure your application is properly created and filed, giving no other company the rights to your original idea. - Patent Battles Enter the Courtroom
If there’s no way to definitively prove you own a patent, another person or company can debate your ownership in court. If this happens, it’s likely that patent attorneys will be involved. When another part has legal representation, it’s imperative that you hire a lawyer of your own. No case is 100% winnable, but patent attorneys are your best hope at receiving a favorable courtroom outcome.
In closing, there are several dangers associated with neglecting to file a patent. Not having your inventions patented means anyone can take your original idea. Whether it’s a person or a company, the owner of an idea is often the one who holds the patent. Many people involved in potential disputes regarding their inventions contact patent attorneys. In turn, you’ll have a reliable source of legal knowledge to help you with any potential patent inquiries.
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