THE PATENT COOPERATION TREATY (PCT)
International protection of your idea or invention is important to consider in the global economy.
The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) is an international intellectual property treaty that was signed in 1970. The primary feature of the PCT is that it sets up a unified procedure for filing patent applications to protect inventions across all of the States that are signatories to the PCT.
A single patent application is filed with a receiving office. A search is then conducted by the International Searching Authority. Optionally, preliminary prosecution can occur as well.
A PCT application will not, in and of itself, result in the issuance of a patent. Rather, the PCT allows for the filing of a common patent application in all contracting States. The application is then examined and issued according to the law of each State.
If you have a question or issue regarding foreign patent protection, please feel free to reach out to us via telephone or email. You may also fill out our online inquiry form and we will strive to get back to you within 24 hours.
For more information, see these other links:
Filing an Application Under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT)
Filing an Application Under the Paris Convention
International Patent Protection
Experienced Patent Attorneys
The attorneys at the Law Offices of Konrad Sherinian have extensive experience in patent matters. We’ve helped clients obtain numerous patents, including more difficult categories such as software, electronics, and the mechanical arts. We have obtained numerous patents in the United States and throughout the world. In addition, we have litigated patent cases on behalf of both plaintiffs and defendants in District Courts throughout the United States.
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Whether you are at the initial starting stage, or trying to protect and enforce what you’ve already have, we can help patent and protect your idea or invention. Reach out to us today. We will quickly set up a time to discuss your intellectual property with an experienced patent attorney.
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Patent FAQs
Here’s a list of the most frequently asked questions about patents. Open each to see our pages dedicated to that topic.
How long does it take to get a patent in Chicago?
The timeline varies depending on the type of patent and the USPTO’s backlog. On average, utility patents take 1-3 years, while design patents are typically processed faster.
What is the cost of filing a patent?
Patent costs vary based on complexity. A utility patent can range from $5,000 to $15,000+, including USPTO and attorney fees. Design patents generally cost less.
Can I enforce my patent if someone infringes on it?
Yes, patent owners can legally enforce their rights and may file lawsuits in federal court for injunctions or damages. A patent attorney can help navigate the process.
What is the difference between utility and design patents?
- Utility Patents protect the functionality of an invention (valid for 20 years).
- Design Patents protect the appearance (valid for 15 years).
Do I need a patent attorney to file a patent?
While not required, working with a patent attorney significantly improves your chances of success, ensuring a strong, well-drafted application and USPTO compliance.
How do I check if my invention is already patented?
A patent search helps determine if an idea is novel. You can search the USPTO database, but a comprehensive attorney-conducted search provides the most reliable results.