What is the process for patenting an invention?

In California, the process for patenting an invention begins with preparing a formal, written patent application. This application must contain all of the necessary background information about your invention (such as an inventor’s name, invention title, and drawings or diagrams of the invention) as well as a clear description of the invention’s purpose and how it works. Once your application is complete, it is then sent to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for review and approval. The USPTO will review your application to make sure it meets all the criteria for patentability. If the USPTO finds your invention to be eligible for a patent, they will send you a formal patent grant. Your patent grant will give you the exclusive right to make, use, and sell the invention for a period of 20 years. During this time, you will be protected from infringement of your rights to the invention and any products or processes derived from it. In order to renew your patent after the 20-year period has ended, your patent must be re-filed with the USPTO. If you decide to re-file, you must pay the required renewal fees in order to keep your patent active and protect your invention. Overall, the process for patenting an invention in California involves preparing a formal patent application and submitting it to the USPTO for approval. If approved, you will receive a grant of patent protection which will allow you to protect your invention for the next 20 years.

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