This document discusses various patent filing options in the US and globally, including: - US provisional applications can establish priority for 12 months at a low cost but are not examined and will not mature into a patent. - US utility applications can issue as a patent if approved after examination but have higher filing and examination costs. Maintenance fees are also required over the lifetime. - The PCT system allows filing in one language then deciding on national phase filings in other countries within 30 months, providing more time to assess value in foreign markets. However, publication occurs at 18 months. - National phase prosecution varies by country and standards are not uniform, so examination results can differ significantly.

1. (C) 2010 Technology Law, PLLC1Navigating PatentsUS and GlobalJanuary 23, 2010

2. (C) 2010 Technology Law, PLLC2US ProvisionalProvisional Application

3. Just as hard to write for priority claim

4. Needs to be global – have at least 1 claim, inventors

5. Only 12 months – then another case –US utility or PCT

6. Low cost $220 LE/$110 SE

7. >100 sheets $270/ $135 SE

8. Not examined

9. Not published

10. Never issues as a patent(C) 2010 Technology Law, PLLC3Errors on ProvisionalDisclose before filed – public or TM

11. Not well written

12. Enablement

13. Written description

14. Does not comply with all the US laws or treaties(C) 2010 Technology Law, PLLC4Case StudyFiled Trademark with pictures of device in own nameActual use but no proofSupplemental RegisterFiled Patent with figuresNamed wife an inventorSold device

15. (C) 2010 Technology Law, PLLC5US UtilityOriginal US Application

16. Can issue

17. Publishes at 18 months from 1st filed (unless file a request)

18. Is examined

19. Cost higher: Filing $330 LE/ $165 SE/ $82 electronic + Search $540 LE/ $270 SE + Exam $220 LE/ $110 SE = $1,090 LE/ $545 SE

20. More costs for claims >3 indep.; >20 claims total, size >100 pgs $270/$135 per 50 pgs (C) 2010 Technology Law, PLLC6RequirementsNovelty – absolute, global