What is the difference between a patent attorney and a patent agent?

Patent attorneys and patent agents are both professionals who help people protect their inventions by filing for patents. However, there are some differences between the two. A patent attorney is an attorney who has studied patent law and holds a law degree. A patent attorney is able to provide legal advice and represent clients in court if needed. Patent attorneys generally offer a broader range of services in addition to helping clients acquire patents. For example, a patent attorney might help a client with contract drafting, licensing, or litigation. On the other hand, a patent agent is a professional who is registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, but does not necessarily have a law degree. Patent agents are technically not allowed to offer legal advice or represent a client in court. However, they are able to aid clients in preparing and filing patent applications. When looking for help with obtaining a patent in North Carolina, it is important to decide whether you need a patent attorney or a patent agent. Depending on the services you require, it is best to find the professional who is best suited for your needs.

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