New York, NY Utility Patent Attorney

Why Hire a Utility Patent Attorney From Bold Patents in New York?

At Bold Patents, we have decades of experience in utility patent law and how patent protection intersects with the primary industries in New York City. We are proud to support visionaries in the city, whether you are part of a start-up or small business, or an independent inventor. Our team understands the complex requirements of innovation in the city’s industries and how important patent protection is for you. We offer comprehensive support for your innovation.

Important Industries in New York

Utility patents can be filed in several industries, and in New York are frequently found in some of its key industries, including:

• Media technology
• Life sciences
• Clean tech
• Fashion
• Emerging technology

The tech industry in New York has grown 32% in the past decade. This and other industries are furthered by aspects of the city, such as:

• Universities. There are many schools for higher education located in New York, bringing innovators to the area. There is New York University (NYU), the City University of New York (CUNY), Columbia University, and many more. These schools push innovation in many ways, including by establishing patents. In the NYU system, there have been more than 1,600 issued patents.
• Incubators and accelerators. Small businesses and start-ups secure a lot of support from these resources, helping push innovation further and refine business models. These organizations may be private or part of city initiatives or local universities.
• Citywide initiatives. The city’s initiatives, such as NYC Small Business Services (SBS), help support new businesses.
• Research and development branches. Existing companies support specific industries in their own R&D departments.

The Basics of a Utility Patent in New York

Utility patents are patents that protect the function of the invention you created, and apply to:

• Machines and apparatuses
• Processes
• Manufactured articles
• Compositions of matter

Your invention may either create something new or be an improvement on an existing invention. As long as your invention is innovative, useful, and non-obvious, you are likely to have an invention that qualifies for a utility patent. They can last a long time, giving you a great window to secure a competitive edge.

Resources for Innovators in New York

Some of the primary resources in New York are the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs). There is a USPTO PTRC in New York City in the Thomas Yoseloff Business Center in the New York Public Library, and a PTRC in Queens at the St. John’s University Libraries. Other important resources for inventors include:

• Local accelerators and incubators
• University technology transfer offices
• University facilities and funding
• Small business development initiatives

The Benefits of a Provisional Patent Application

A provisional patent application is an option available for those filing utility patents. When you file this type of application, you don’t need a complete patent application. Once the provisional patent is filed, you can continue to develop and refine your invention and prepare the nonprovisional patent application.

When you are ready to file this final utility patent application, you can, and your filing date is the date of the provisional application. This greatly speeds up the waiting process for the USPTO examination. On average, the process takes between 26.6 months and 43.1 months. By filing a provisional patent up to 12 months before the full application, you can reduce the waiting period.ot, which is helpful since the average time it takes for a USPTO decision is 30.8 months as of August 2025.

Find Your Industry’s Patent Requirements

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.

FAQs

What Is the Difference Between a Design Patent and a Utility Patent in New York?

The main difference between a design patent and a utility patent in New York is that a design patent protects the appearance of an innovative creation, while a utility patent protects the function of the creation. Design patents are generally the shape or applied design of an article of manufacture. Utility patents can be an article of manufacture, as well as a process, machine, or composition of matter.

What Are the Downsides of a New York Utility Patent?

There are some downsides to a New York utility patent, including that it is one of the more costly types of patents to file for, and there are also many applications being filed for utility patents. Because of the high volume, it can also take longer on average to receive a response. It’s important to talk through the benefits and drawbacks with an attorney.

How Many Years Will a Utility Patent Last in New York?

A utility patent will last for 20 years once it is granted, starting from the date the patent was filed. However, this protection only lasts if maintenance fees are paid. Utility patents require fees to be paid every so often to keep the legal protections effective. These fees are due at 3.5, 7.5, and 11.5 years. While the patent lasts, you have the right to prevent others from using, selling, or making your invention.

Can You File a Patent Without a Lawyer in New York?

While it’s possible to file a patent without a lawyer in New York, it isn’t recommended. Inventions are often made in technically complex fields, and it is essential that these aspects are properly documented in the application. An experienced New York patent attorney can help you create a strong application that offers robust protection. They can also help you connect with important resources local to New York to help in the development of your invention.

Reach Out to Bold Patents in New York City

When you have a bold idea in New York, NY, you need a bold solution. Contact Bold Patents today and learn how we can help you safeguard your invention.

Bold Patents J.D. Houvener, Esq., MBA, P.E.

Principal Patent Attorney, Bold Patents