How to Trademark Books, DVDs and Creative Works
What are common problems in registering a trademark on books? Books, DVDs, CDs, films, videos and other media containing creative content are generally considered creative…
The Largest Free Patent and Trademark Q&A Resource: 570+ Posts on IP
No use of trademark before filing application: What are your options?
Do-It-Yourself Trademark Filings There are several DIY and semi-DIY trademark services offering to help applicants file their trademark applications with the USPTO. In many cases,…
What is a lack of bona fide intent to use?
What is intent to use? To understand what is not an intent to use, let’s first begin with what it is. Intent to use refers…
Patenting software and business methods in Japan
Guest post by Aki Ryuka Japan Patent Attorney and founder of Ryuka IP Law Firm Japan IP High Court Says, Steak Providing System is Patent…
How to read a patent: Utility vs. design patents
How to read a patent While design patents are straightforward, utility patents can be confusing to understand. You have the claims which read like a…
Patent Abstract: Traps for the Unwary
What is a patent abstract? A patent abstract is a short section of a utility patent that concisely summarizes the invention. Preferably located after the…
What is a Patent Examiner’s Amendment?
What is a Patent Examiner’s Amendment? I love Examiner’s Amendments. Not only is the patent examiner willing to allow a patent application, the examiner is…
What is an extension of time to oppose a trademark application?
What is an extension of time to oppose a trademark application? The US trademark legal system allows third parties to oppose the registration of a…
How to Revive Abandoned Patent Application or Expired Patent
Can an abandoned patent application be revived? Under certain circumstances, yes. An abandoned patent application may be revived depending upon the following key factors: Need…
GUI Design Patents: How to Protect Graphical User Interfaces
Is US design patent protection available for a graphical user interface? Yes, it is possible to obtain a US design patent on a graphical user…
How much does a patent Office Action response cost?
Office Action cost range: from simple to complex responses The cost estimate of responding to an Office Action in a utility patent application will depend…
Should you get a second opinion on your patent application?
What should you ask for in a second opinion? So you have a nagging feeling that something is not right with your pending patent application,…
How to Transfer Trademark Ownership: Trademark Assignment
How do you transfer ownership of a trademark? To change the owner of a federal trademark registration or application, a trademark assignment should be signed…
How can you save money on international patent costs?
How much does an international utility patent application cost? International patent costs can escalate quickly. When pursuing utility patents in foreign countries, you cannot ignore…
USPTO patent fees: How to save or defer fees
What are standard USPTO filing fees for a utility nonprovisional patent application? Anyone concerned about cash flow will be glad to know that certain USPTO…
Ready to Slay Goliath?
Not sure where to start? Email US patent attorney Vic Lin at vlin@icaplaw.com.