Patent Attorney and Founder
Obtaining a patent is a significant milestone for any inventor. It’s a moment of triumph that validates your hard work and innovation. But what happens after your patent is granted? Is there any reason to continue working with a law firm, or should you go it alone?
At Bold Patents Law Firm, we often get this question from clients. As a patent attorney and author of Bold Ideas: The Inventor’s Guide to Patents, I’ve spent over a decade helping thousands of inventors navigate the patent process. Today, let’s delve into why staying with a law firm after your patent is granted can be highly beneficial.
The Maintenance Question: Why It Matters
After your patent is granted, one key task is keeping it enforceable by paying maintenance fees at regular intervals—typically at 3.5, 7.5, and 11.5 years for utility patents. These fees ensure your patent remains valid and enforceable for up to 20 years from its filing date.
Some inventors wonder, “Apart from reminders, is there any real benefit to staying with a law firm after my patent is granted?” While the answer depends on your needs, the advantages of staying with a firm like Bold Patents often outweigh the costs.
Here are five compelling reasons to maintain your relationship with your patent law firm.
1. Timely and Accurate Maintenance Fee Reminders
As an inventor or entrepreneur, you juggle countless responsibilities. It’s easy to overlook critical dates, like patent maintenance fee deadlines.
A law firm ensures you receive timely reminders to keep your patent enforceable. Missing a maintenance payment could render your patent invalid, leaving your innovation unprotected.
Key takeaway: Staying with a law firm means you never miss crucial deadlines, giving you peace of mind and keeping your patent secure.
2. Hassle-Free Payment Handling
Filing maintenance fees might seem straightforward, but any error can lead to costly delays or even invalidation of your patent. At Bold Patents, our paralegals and attorneys handle these payments with precision, ensuring compliance with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) requirements.
For just a few hundred dollars, we ensure your payment is filed correctly and confirmed. This service is invaluable if your patent plays a key role in maintaining your competitive edge.
Learn more about how we support patent owners on our patent maintenance services page.
3. Your Attorney Remains the Attorney of Record
When you stay with a law firm, your attorney remains the attorney of record at the USPTO. This means your legal representative can receive and respond to official correspondence related to your patent.
While rare, the USPTO may send notices or updates concerning your patent. For example, changes in patent law or post-grant proceedings could affect your patent rights. Having a knowledgeable attorney on hand ensures you’re prepared to address any issues swiftly.
Key takeaway: Your attorney acts as your watchdog, protecting your patent rights and keeping you informed of any changes that may affect your intellectual property.
4. Expert Guidance on Legal and Market Changes
Patent law is not static. Changes in legislation, court rulings, or USPTO policies can impact your ability to enforce your patent. Staying with a law firm gives you access to expert advice on how these changes might affect your patent portfolio.
For instance, we often advise clients on the implications of new case law or how to navigate evolving market conditions. This proactive approach ensures your intellectual property remains a valuable asset.
Explore how Bold Patents can help you enforce your rights by visiting our patent enforcement services page.
5. Continued Attorney-Client Relationship and Added Benefits
Maintaining your relationship with a law firm goes beyond technical and legal support—it’s about building goodwill. At Bold Patents, active clients gain access to exclusive benefits, including:
- Free consultations on future inventions or business concerns.
- Professional referrals within our network to help you grow your business.
- Ongoing guidance for managing your intellectual property portfolio.
These perks make the minor annual cost of staying with your law firm a worthwhile investment.
Discover more about our comprehensive patent services here.
Why the Benefits Outweigh the Costs
Some inventors hesitate to pay for ongoing legal services after their patent is granted. However, the cost of staying with a law firm—typically a few hundred dollars per year—is minimal compared to the risks of losing your patent or missing valuable opportunities.
With the right law firm by your side, you gain a trusted partner who is invested in your success.
What If You’re Considering Switching Firms?
If you’re unhappy with your current representation or want to explore your options, it’s never too late to switch to a firm like Bold Patents. Our team specializes in making the transition seamless while ensuring your patents remain protected.
Learn more about switching to Bold Patents by visiting our about us page.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
At Bold Patents, we’re committed to supporting inventors at every stage of their journey—from idea to enforcement and beyond. Whether you’re managing an existing patent or planning your next big idea, we’re here to help.
Book your free discovery call today to discuss how we can support your intellectual property needs. Click here to schedule.
Final Thoughts
Staying with a law firm after your patent is granted isn’t just about convenience—it’s a strategic decision that safeguards your intellectual property and enhances your business potential.
If you’re ready to maximize the value of your patent and explore new opportunities, let Bold Patents be your guide.