News and Updates
McConnell Law Firm, P.C. is an intellectual property law firm specializing in assisting inventors and entrepreneurs protect their innovations and investment with patents and trademarks.
The Business Case for (and Against) Patent Protection
Is a patent right for your product? Here is how to think through the legal requirements, timing, and return on investment before committing capital. Designing, building, and launching a new product requires significant capital. Protecting that investment through...
Who Owns a Patent? Three Key Principles Every Inventor Should Know
Understanding patent ownership is critical before filing a patent application. This article explains the three foundational concepts — joint ownership, inventorship and assignment — that determine who controls a patent application and who owns the resulting issued...
Utility Patent vs Design Patent: Which One is Right for Your Invention?
Navigating the world of patents can be daunting. For inventors, understanding the right type of patent is crucial. Two main types of patents exist: utility patents and design patents. Each serves a unique purpose. Utility patents protect the functional aspects of an...
How Much Does a Patent Cost in the United States?
You've just come up with a great idea—a new gadget, a new machine, a unique design, a better way to do something. The next question is often: "How do I protect this idea, and can I even afford it?" This guide demystifies the cost of getting a patent, helping you make...
Trademark Renewal Guide: How Often to Renew?
How Often Do You Have to Renew a Trademark? So you did it. You navigated the paperwork and now have a registered trademark for your brand. Congratulations! That little ® symbol is a powerful badge of honor. But here’s the surprising truth most new owners don't...
Webinar Replay: A Guide for International Patent Protection – Understanding the Patent Cooperation Treaty
Protecting your invention globally can be complex and expensive. The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) offers a streamlined pathway that saves both time and money. Watch the Webinar Watch the video of our January webinar on the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) below. In...
Building Brand Power: Why Arbitrary and Fanciful Trademarks Are Your Strongest Asset
Introduction: The Foundation of Brand Protection When establishing a business, selecting the right trademark can be the difference between a forgettable brand and an iconic one. Your trademark isn’t just a name—it’s a strategic asset that builds consumer recognition,...
Understanding the Patent Cooperation Treaty: A Guide for International Patent Protection
For businesses operating internationally, United States patent protection alone may be insufficient. Such businesses often seek patent protection in the international jurisdictions where they conduct business. The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) provides a unified...
Webinar Replay: Essential Patent Protection Strategies for Inventors
In case you missed our August Webinar, a video of the session is posted below for your viewing convenience. In this valuable training session, we discuss the patent system and what every inventor needs to know to protect their innovations: Types of patents Parts of a...
What are the Parts of a Utility Patent?
Understanding the key elements that make up every patent is essential for inventors and businesses seeking intellectual property protection. Specification The specification—also called the detailed description—serves as the complete blueprint for your invention. This...
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