The patent process has gotten a bad rap in recent times. Skeptics question whether it is worth it to file for patents on fast-moving technologies like robotics when the patent may not issue for three or more years when the technology may already be obsolete or at a minimum surpassed. Recent developments in patent law before the Supreme Court, placing the validity of many existing patents in question, have not helped change this sentiment. Does this have to be the case? Is there a way to have your patent application granted quickly? In this article, Finnegan attorney Linda J. Thayer discusses techniques for expediting the process of obtaining patents from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
Previously published in The Robotics Law Journal
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.