Patent Attorney and Founder
People ask this a lot: “What website do I go to to patent an idea?”
Short answer? You can’t patent an idea.
That’s not me being harsh. That’s just how patents work.
You patent an invention, not a loose thought. I talk about this a lot in my book, because this is where most people get stuck.
An idea lives in your head.
An invention can be built.
There’s a big difference.
Everyone can be an inventor. I love that mindset. But before you file anything, slow down. Ask yourself a few real questions.
Can this actually be made?
Would someone use it?
Do I care enough to see it through?
If it’s just a theory or a clever concept, it’s not ready. Patents live in the practical world. You need something concrete. Something you can explain so clearly that another person could build it from your description.
Once you reach that point, now you’ve got an invention.
That’s when options open up.
You can file on your own. Some people do. But it’s rough. The process is slow, technical, and unforgiving. One bad choice early can cost you later.
A better move is learning the basics first. Understand the rules. Then decide who should help you.
You’ll hear two main options:
- Patent agents
They didn’t go to law school, but they passed the patent bar. Many are very technical and do solid work. - Patent attorneys
They handle patents and legal risk. That includes disputes, enforcement, and court issues. They cost more, but you get a wider view.
At Bold, we work with inventors who plan to enter the market or license their work. There’s a plan. A path. Not just a filing.
If you’re shopping for help, call around. Talk to people. Pay attention to how they explain things.
Price matters.
Trust matters more.
Pick someone you understand. Someone who understands you.