Four Steps to Patenting an Invention
Carson Patents® has four steps to seeking a patent for a utility or design invention. The four steps are: [1] search, [2] write, [3] file, and [4] prosecute. We start with the prior art search. If the invention is patentable, then we write and file the application. Inventions become patent pending once filed. Determining which claims become patented occurs as we prosecute the patent application. Carson Patents® will work closely with you through the following four steps to pursue a patent for your invention. Contact us about any of the steps to patenting for your invention or idea.
Step 1: Prior Art Search and Patentability Evaluation
Step one is the prior art search and patentability evaluation. Carson Patents® offers utility patent searching and design patent searching. The prior art search finds prior art (the products, inventions, and research) that are similar to the invention or idea. The patentability evaluation offers insight into novelty and patentability. Further, it helps inform on what to address when writing the patent application’s description and claims.
Step 2: Application Writing
Step two is patent application writing. Carson Patents® offers both utility application writing and design application writing. We write the application for you. We draft and get your approval on everything. Your patent agent writes the specification and fills out all the forms. The specification includes the description, claims, and abstract. We provide any drawings needed. Contact us to write an application for your invention.
Step 3: Application Filing
Step three is filing the patent application. Carson Patents® provides both utility patent filing and design patent filing. Patent application filing is submitting the application documents to the USPTO. We work with all types of patent applications. Once an application is submitted, the invention is patent pending. Carson Patents® files patent applications electronically. We send you an electronic receipt the day we file. After we file, the USPTO will send a filing receipt.
Step 4: Prosecution
Step four is prosecuting the patent application. Carson Patents® offers both utility patent prosecution and design patent prosecution. Prosecution for patent applications is communicating with the USPTO to advance an application through examination. We prepare and submit responses office actions from the patent office. We conduct examiner interviews. Patent prosecution continues until examination is complete. Contact us to prosecute your patent application.
A patent is the legal right to control the making, using, and selling of the invention for a limited time. In the United States, utility and design patents are issued for different lengths of time. Utility patents are issued for 20 years from the filing date. Design patents are issued for 15 years date of issuance. 
Online Patent Applications
We file and prosecute utility and design invention patent pending applications online at the United States Patent and Trademark Office and at World Intellectual Property Office.
- United States Patent and Trademark Office online filing at – Patent Center – for US utility and design patent applications.
- World Intellectual Property Office online filing at – PCT Applications – for international utility patent applications.
- World Intellectual Property Office online filing at – Hague Applications – for international design patent applications.
Patent Confidentiality. Invention disclosures to patent practitioners are covered by client controlled privilege.
Important TIP: When looking for expert patenting services online from a patents firm/office, only a patent attorney or patent agent can prosecute patents for you.
