Just as every invention is unique, so is every patent. Although it may be tempting to use a cookie- cutter strategy for obtaining patent protection on all kinds of technology, a "one size fits all" approach can put your patent portfolio in peril if it includes patents on computer technology.

Under U.S. patent law, when two people file patent applications for the same invention, the person who invented the invention first is entitled to the patent. As a result, you may not be entitled to a U.S. patent on one of your inventions even if you file a patent application on that invention before anyone else. It is always possible that someone else who files a patent application after you will be able to prove that he or she actually invented the invention before you did.

When you file a patent application in the U.S., you are required to provide the Patent Office with any information you have about existing patents, products, and services that relate to your invention. This information is then provided to the patent examiner assigned to your case for use in determining whether your invention is patentable. Although it may seem strange, you are required to provide the Patent Office with certain kinds of information that can be used against you in the process of obtaining a patent.