Beware of traps that can kill your patent prospects.  Some surprisingly innocent activities can prevent you from getting a patent.  We will review risky behavior and answer such questions.

Sample situations: 

TELL NO ONE! Even with a Nondisclosure Agreement, a "Public Disclosure" can prevent patenting, especially abroad.  Although the U.S. has a 1 year grace period, this is not the norm worldwide.  Even an "Offer-to Sell" can end hopes.  (At least lawyers are sworn to secrecy). 

SLUMBERING ON YOUR RIGHTS: The opposite of the hyperactivity risks- if you do not file promptly after completing your invention, you may never be able to get a patent. 

INEQUITABLE CONDUCT DESTROYS GRANTED PATENTS: No big surprise, but just listing wrong inventors can invalidate a granted patent.  Do you know who your inventors are? 

BEST MODE: No sandbagging allowed.  If you want to get a patent, you must disclose your most successful results at the time you file. 

David is a member at VERN MAINE & ASSOCIATES, an intellectual property law firm in Nashua, NH.  He has over 20 years of technical experience.  His patent prosecution work includes oceanography, antennas, computer hardware / software, and nuclear devices.  David graduated from UMass Lowell in physics and obtained his JD from the Franklin Pierce Law Center.  He is licensed to practice in MA and NH.  www.vernmaine.com

Please RSVP to this FREE event:

Amit Basnet abasnet@umassd.edu or 508-910-9872