How to Get a Software Patent?

Patent rights can protect the imagination and creative aspects of inventions. Patent rights protect inventions from being copied by others. But, each country’s process of securing protection differs, and every country has different limitations and options for patenting software inventions.

In the United States, there are special limitations on obtaining a software patent that have been crafted by various Federal Courts. Patent legislation expressly excludes software. Other countries have different limitations.

What is a Software Patent and what are Its Benefits?

A software patent is, in simplest terms, a utility patent that claims a software invention. Software patents have been the subject of extensive litigation, and have been licensed for hundreds of billions of dollars, with many of those fees going to small inventors. As a result of the numerous cases that have been litigated, there are numerous precedents that have been issued and created various limitations on what software can be the subject of a patent and what cannot. For example, software must be useful as defined by 35 U.S.C. § 101.

Software Patents are Extremely Important

Software safety and security are essential in the InfoTech sector because it brings value to hardware without which a computer program cannot execute properly. Encouraging research and development in these areas is vital to the economy. These are just a few of the benefits of software patents.

Patent rights protect computer programs that are useful inventions in view of all known past inventive efforts. In practical terms, a software patent saves inventions’ viability and stimulates creation and commercialization. Patent security is provided on a country-by-country basis.

What Can Be the Subject of a Software Patent?

Software patents can be granted for numerous different types of software innovations. For example:

  1. New algorithms, such as a new search algorithm;
  2. New types of software applications, such as a new type of social networking;
  3. Software as a Service Innovations;
  4. Cryptocurrency Innovations;
  5. Mobile apps.

However, software-related inventions are generally not treated the same as other technology advances in patent laws. There are many reasons for this; for example, some software patents have attempted to claim simple mathematical calculations, which is a type of abstract idea – a form of subject matter that is specifically barred from patent protection.

At a minimum, a software patent application should include a description of the invention, such as a description of the operation of the algorithm, as well as any novel or important data structures.

Software Patents are Often the Only Practical Form of Protection

Patent protection for a software invention is limited by country and generally lasts for 20 years from the date of filing (although the length of time can vary). Registration and enforcement can be costly and lengthy processes. However, in many cases, a software patent is the only practical means of protecting your invention.

Trademarks generally do not protect software innovations – rather they protect brands.

Copyright provides some protection from copying the source code, images, etc. However, it does not stop a competitor from developing their own product – even if their images and general structure are very close to yours.

Trade secret protection can prevent your employees from taking your source code, art, and other IP and starting a competing company. However, again, it will not stop another company from competing with you.

On the other hand, a well-constructed patent portfolio guarding the key features of your software can stop a competitor in its tracks. In many cases, a software patent is the only real choice.

Benefits and Cons of Software Patents

There are many things that you need to take into consideration before applying for a Patent. The application of patent law to software-related inventions is complex. It is always a good idea to consult a patent lawyer. A patent attorney can help to explain the potential advantages and drawbacks of applying for a patent.

Software Patent Pros

  • Protecting your invention. A patent holder can use their patent to stop others from practicing his or her invention. A patent effectively grants you a time-limited monopoly.
  • Patents will raise the valuation of your company in the eyes of investors and provide real credibility to the public.
  • A strong patent portfolio can be used to fend off a larger, more established competitor.

Software Patents: Cons

  • The standard for patentability of software patent applications is still being litigated in court and is not entirely settled. This adds uncertainty as to whether your invention will be granted patent protection.
  • Once you apply for a patent, the subject of the patent is no longer is eligible for trade secret protection. However, the source code, operation of features that are not patented, and other information that is not described in the patent can still be protected as a trade secret.
  • Some countries do not universally recognize patent rights in the software. However, these tend to be countries that do not respect intellectual property in general or are not significant as markets.

Software Patent Lawyer

A software patent lawyer is an attorney who assists clients in the acquisition, protection, licensing, and enforcement of patents for software inventions. These are complicated issues and a software patent lawyer can help clients navigate the complex legal & regulatory landscape surrounding software patents. This can prove challenging because of the rapid pace of technological development and the changing nature of software.

One example of the services a software patent attorney may offer is:

  • Software inventions that are eligible for patent protection can be reviewed and analyzed to determine which are best to pursue protection for.
  • Preparation and filing of patent applications with the relevant Patent Office
  • Writing patent licensing agreements and negotiating licensing terms between third parties
  • Enforcing patent rights through litigation or other legal means like cease-and-desist letters, arbitration, etc.

One must hold a law degree to become a lawyer for software patents. A background in software engineering or computer science and a good understanding of intellectual property law are also required.

How Can Patent Lawyers Help With Patent Ideas?

Once your idea has been proven commercially viable, it is time to file a software/utility patent application. Many questions will arise about patenting a software idea. This is where a patent attorney comes in to help.

You can get help from Software Patent Attorneys with the following:

  1. Patentability Search – After you have determined that your idea has the potential to be a valuable invention, it is time to search for similar patents and other prior art that could be used to prevent you from obtaining a patent.
  2. What type of patent do you need? Not every feature of every software can be granted a patent. But those that are patentable would typically file for a utility patent. However, in some cases, UI features have been granted design patents, some of which have been very valuable!
  3. Filling a Provisional Application for Patent: This is often the first step in obtaining patent protection; i.e., filing a provisional application that is directed to the general concept behind a new software feature. This is important because U.S. law says that patents are first-to-file, not first-to-invent, so if someone beats you to the Patent Office, you lose your invention.
  4. Submitting a Non-Provisional Patent Application: Before a patent can be granted, a non-provisional patent application must be filed. The non-provisional application, which is what most people think of when they think of patent applications, will be examined for various formalities, and if the claims of the patent are found to be patentable over the prior art, a patent for your invention will issue. A non-provisional application frequently claims priority to a provisional application, although the non-provisional must be filed within one year of the earliest provisional application that it will claim priority.
  5. Responding to the Office Action: An Office Action refers to a document written and sent by an examiner to a patent or trademark applicant. Typically, an office action will reject the claim of your application, and such a rejection must be responded to by amending the claims of the application or arguing against the Examiner’s reasoning.
  6. Replying to the Notice to Allowance: Once your patent has been deemed patentable, which can take anywhere from a few months to several years, a notice of allowance will be issued. The notice of allowance typically cites the reasons why the Examiner allowed the claims, and often requires a response from the applicant.

What Types Of Software Are Patentable?

The chances of your software being patentable are higher if it is more technical. Your software might not be patentable if you use it to run tasks that an average person can do with a pen and notes.

Your software may be patentable; however, if it produces a technical result or technological improvement over existing computer systems, such as if it creates new types of databases or structures in memory that improve the overall functionality of the computer.

How Can I Determine Whether My Software Is Patentable?

You should talk to a software patent lawyer with expertise in drafting software patents. Before meeting with your attorney, meet with your engineers, coders, marketing people and other decision-makers at your company to determine which software features are most important for your business.

Also, identify the most difficult parts to implement successfully. These features should be discussed with your attorney to determine whether they constitute a substantial technical improvement warranting a patent.

The Law Offices of Konrad Sherinian, LLC has years of experience in prosecuting software patents – it is one of our core competencies, and several of our attorneys are former software engineers.

Contact us today if you have a software invention and you would like to apply for a patent.

Patent 101

Watch Our Video

Here’s a short video describing an overview on patents. It covers a lot of the basics, including the three main types of patents:

    • Utility Patents
    • Design Patents
    • Plant Patents

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What makes The Law Offices of Konrad Sherinian, LLC the best choice for a Naperville patent lawyer?

Our firm stands out for its experienced attorneys with technical expertise, comprehensive patent services, personalized attention, and a track record of successful results. We are committed to protecting your inventions and providing innovative solutions tailored to your needs.

What types of patents can your attorneys handle?

Our attorneys have successfully handled a wide range of patent applications, including mechanical, software, business method, electrical, electronic, and design patents. We stay updated on the latest developments in patent law to provide effective strategies for various patent types.

How can your firm help with international patent protection?

Our attorneys are admitted to practice before the United States Patent & Trademark Office and have extensive experience in procuring patent protection worldwide. We have established a strong network of counsel globally to assist you in obtaining comprehensive patent rights internationally.

Can you assist in licensing my patents?

Absolutely. Our experienced patent attorneys can help you license your patents to companies in relevant industries. We conduct thorough market research, identify potential licensees, and assist in developing persuasive pitches to maximize the value of your inventions.

How can I benefit from strategic patent portfolio management?

Strategic patent portfolio management is crucial for achieving your business goals. Whether you need to create a defensive or offensive patent portfolio, our experienced attorneys will develop a tailored strategy to protect your interests and secure your competitive advantage.

What if a dispute arises regarding my patent rights?

In the event of a dispute, our firm has a proven track record in patent litigation. Our attorneys are experienced in representing clients in district courts nationwide, providing effective representation within a reasonable budget. We explore insurance coverage options whenever possible.

How do you ensure personalized attention and tailored solutions from a right patent attorney?

At The Law Offices of Konrad Sherinian, LLC, we believe in building strong relationships with our clients. We take the time to understand your patent-related challenges and provide personalized attention and tailored solutions that address your specific needs. We collaborate closely with you to ensure your success.

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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.