Free Patent Searches
Free patent searches can be conducted online through the USPTO website or through the Google patent search platform. While we do advise having a patent attorney perform a patent search on your behalf, it is helpful to first perform free patent searches before you start spending money.
Free Patent Search Links:
1. USPTO Patent Search Tool
Find Similar Intellectual Property
The first thing you should do is to document and then begin performing searches to find similar intellectual property. Given the history of innovation in our country, you will likely find prior art for nearly every patent idea. However, even similar patents may not keep you from receiving a patent as long as your invention is truly unique.
Given that most patent databases outside of the USPTO’s are limited in their scope, I would recommend that you search it first. You must educate yourself so that your free patent searches are not futile. There are many guides on how to conduct patent searches.
Do Initial Research Yourself then Contact a Patent Attorney
So, you will want to first conduct your free patent searches. If the invention idea is unique, you would then contact a patent attorney to perform a full patent search on your behalf. These patent searches will come with a fee so make sure you have a budget ready.
You will want to find a patent attorney who has experience in the industry in which you are looking to protect your invention. This helps you save time, save money, and increases the likelihood that you will receive a stronger patent.
If you are looking at filing a patent, Idea Buyer will be happy to point you in the right direction for free patent searches.