Memphis Utility Patent Attorney

Hire a Utility Patent Attorney at Bold Patents

It’s important to work with a patent attorney who has experience and skill. At Bold Patents, we have spent years navigating patent applications and other forms of intellectual property protection. As local attorneys in Memphis, we are aware of the key industries in the area, the relevant utility patent laws, and the city’s constantly changing innovation landscape.

Whether you are an independent inventor, part of a new start-up, or in an established small business, our firm can help. We know it can feel like the big corporations have all the advantages, and we want to protect your invention and market edge. When you have a bold idea, you need Bold Patents.

What Is a Utility Patent?

A patent offers protection for a new, usable, and useful invention. A utility patent, specifically, applies to an invention’s function, including a machine, composition, process, or other item. The patent protects a new invention’s function or a marked improvement to that of an existing invention.

When you have patent protection, you will have the right to stop others from using your invention. They cannot sell, offer to sell, make, or import the invention to the U.S. This protection lasts for up to 20 years, and you can take legal action against parties that infringe on your rights.

Key Industries in Memphis

Innovation in Memphis is fueled by its primary industries, such as:

• Advanced manufacturing
• Automotive and supplies
• Agriculture technology (AgTech)
• Information technology
• Supply and logistics
• Life sciences and biotech

The Greater Memphis Chamber reported $2.2 billion in capital investments in its 2024 annual report, supporting businesses, infrastructure, and innovation. Industry innovation is also furthered by companies, organizations, and individuals, such as:

• Schools like the University of Memphis (U of M), Rhodes College, and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center
• The Memphis Medical District Collaborative
• Investors like Innova Memphis, with 297 investments in the area
• Local businesses and new start-ups
• Incubators, accelerators, and co-working spaces
• Corporation research and development teams

Resources for Innovators

One challenge for many new inventors is having the financial and facility resources needed to fully test and refine an invention. Being aware of the local resources available to you can provide this support. Some of these include:

• The U of M Office of Technology Transfer, which has over 55 issued patents and can help innovators license their inventions with companies for commercialization
• Incubators and accelerators, such as Epicenter Memphis, the Alchemist Accelerator ‘s Memphis Hub Accelerator Program, and Start Co., which offer networking events, funding opportunities, and research support

Inventors can also benefit from resources offered by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). There are USPTO Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs), like:

• The Mississippi State University Libraries in Mississippi State, Mississippi
• The Arkansas State Library in Little Rock, Arkansas
• The John C. Hodges Library in Knoxville, Tennessee

These PTRCs offer information about patents and resources for conducting patent searches. The USPTO Southeast Regional Outreach Office is in Alexandria, Virginia.

Local and USPTO resources give innovators important help. However, a Memphis utility patent lawyer can show you the right resources that benefit you while also protecting your rights to your invention.

The Importance of an Attorney for Utility Patent Applications

When you hire a utility patent attorney, they understand the USPTO application process, along with what information you need for the most successful application. They can assess patentability, conduct patent and art searches, and document your invention for the application. Your attorney can assist you with the application, monitor the examination process, and respond efficiently to any requests from the USPTO.

Find Your Industry’s Patent Requirements

It’s important to get targeted patent guidance for your specific industry. Click on your industry below to discover specialized patent requirements, strategic approaches, and how our attorneys can transform your ideas into protected assets.

Aerospace	Electronic Devices
Agriculture	Fitness
Algorithms	Gaming
Architecture and Construction	Hardware Design
Artificial Intelligence (AI)	Medical Devices
Business Methods	Smart Home Technology
Cleantech and Green Tech	Software
Computer Hardware	Robotics
Consumer Products	Wearable Tech
Transportation & Logistics	Nanotechnology
3D Printing/Additive Manufacturing	Cybersecurity
Telecommunications	Blockchain
Cleantech and Green Tech

FAQs

How Much Do You Pay for a Utility Patent Attorney?

The amount you pay for a utility patent attorney will rely on the attorney’s fee structure, their experience in patent law, how technically complex your invention is, and other factors. A more complicated invention tends to require more resources to fully document for an application, which increases the costs of the process.

Most patent attorneys charge hourly, so the longer the process takes, the more expensive it can be. The support of an attorney can increase your chance of success.

What Is the Difference Between a Patent Lawyer and an Intellectual Property Lawyer?

The difference between a patent lawyer and an intellectual property lawyer is that an intellectual property lawyer deals with many types of intellectual property, so they may not always have education about patent specifics. A patent lawyer has knowledge specific to how patents work.

Intellectual property lawyers have a broader scope of practice and can help with licensing and copyrighting. A patent lawyer can effectively navigate your patent case with the USPTO.

How Much Does a 20-Year Utility Patent Cost?

The cost of a 20-year utility patent requires regular maintenance fees, which include a fee of: 

• $430 to $2,150 at 3.5 years
• $808 to $4,040 at 7.5 years
• $1,656 to $8,280 at 11.5 years

If these maintenance fees are not paid, the patent will expire before 20 years. Maintenance fees are not the only fees to consider when securing a patent. There are application, examination, and issuance fees.

What Qualifies for a Utility Patent?

A utility patent must be a new invention or a useful improvement on a current invention. It can be a process, machine, manufactured article, or composition of matter. In addition to meeting the requirements for a utility patent, it must meet the general requirements of a patent. These include the following:

1. It is non-theoretical.
2. It is non-obvious.
3. There is a clear description of how it can be made or used.

Reach Out to Bold Patents in Memphis

You can get exceptional support for your utility patent case. Get in touch with Bold Patents today, and let us provide the guidance you need.