What is patent pending?

Patent pending is a legal term used to describe an invention that a patent has been applied for, but not yet granted. In Washington, a patent pending is a form of intellectual property protection for inventors and creators. It gives inventors the right to prevent others from making, using, selling, or importing the invention without their permission. The process for obtaining a patent can take several years, so the term “patent pending” is used to inform people that a patent is in the works, even if it has not been granted yet. It gives inventors some protection until their patent is granted, giving them exclusive rights to the invention. In addition, the patent pending status gives inventors the right to mark the invention with the term “patent pending” to warn potential infringers that the invention is under patent protection. This can help to deter potential infringement, since potential infringers are aware that the inventor may take legal action if their invention is infringed upon. In Washington, inventors are required to follow certain procedures and legal requirements in order to receive a patent pending status. In general, the inventor must file a patent application with the US. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in order to obtain patent pending protection in the state of Washington. After filing the patent application, the inventor must then wait for the USPTO to review and approve the patent application. Once approved, the inventor will receive a patent pending status, giving them exclusive rights to the invention until the patent is granted.

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