Form An LLC

 

            Create An LLC            (Limited Liability Company)

Affordably Form An LLC With SNAP LEgal

-500 USD & State Filing Fees-

 

Officially and legally forming your business can be confusing and time-consuming. Luckily, we at Miller IP Law take care of confusing and time-consuming legal projects for our customers all of the time. So we've set up a way to affordably and efficiently form a domestic limited liability company.

Simply fill out a 10 minute form to choose your business name & info, and our attorneys will take care of the rest for you!

HOW DOES IT WORK?

It's a very simple process.  

1) Click on any of the blue "Get Started Now" buttons 

2) Answer the questions that are provided  

3) Enter your credit/debit card information 

 4) You're part is done! Our attorneys will then go through the necessary paperwork, and we will let you know when everything is complete! This typically takes 1-45 business days (varies by state).

 

The form to get started looks like this:

 

WHAT BUSINESS TYPE IS BEST FOR ME?

There are a variety of different options for business types. 

LLC

An LLC (limited liability company) protects the personal assets of the business owner(s). For example, if your business gets sued (or entangled with other legal troubles), then typically your company's assets can be taken. Your family home, your personal belongings, and your personal cash are shielded by the LLC.

With an LLC, you are taxed similarly to a sole proprietorship. This gives you a great deal of flexibility, but makes it difficult to have other shareholders.

It's great for smaller companies, but not for companies who plan to go public or do business internationally.

 S-Corp/C-Corp

S-Corps and C-Corps also afford you limited liability (similar to an LLC), but they are taxed differently.

They allow more shareholders, thereby making it easier for the company to go public.

 

Want more details? You can get a free consultation with one of our attorneys, where he/she will help you determine what is best for your specific company. Simply use the blue section at the bottom of this article to schedule yours.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

On your end, it will only take about 10 minutes to fill out the form, and a couple of extra minutes to enter your credit/debit card info. Then, depending on the state, it will take our attorneys approximately 1-45 business days to complete, submit, and finalize the paperwork.

 

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Regardless of what type of business you would like to form, our flat fees are the same. A simple 500 USD attorney fee + your state's filing fees. 

The average state filing fee is 132 USD, but ranges from 40-500 USD (sorry Massachusetts).

 

WHICH STATE SHOULD I FORM MY LLC/CORP IN?  

You typically aren’t required to form LLC/Corp in your home state, however for most businesses, it’s best to form your LLC /Corp in your home state since that is where you legally perform your business.  

This includes online businesses, as you are still running your business in your home state. Sometimes you will see business form their business in Wyoming because of their low filing fees or Delaware because they have more business friendly laws, but forming your business in another state can be more expensive in the long run.  

If you are considering forming a business outside your home state, please schedule a strategy session with an attorney to understand the pros/cons of this decision.  

WANT A FREE CONSULTATION?

We understand that deciding what type of business formation is best for your company can be a daunting task. It doesn't have to be, though. We offer free consultations to all potential customers, where you can talk to an attorney directly over Zoom. 

We will ask more questions about your company, it's ambitions, and how we can best help you reach them.

Schedule a free strategy session to learn what will help your company today!

Read more →

Selling Your Invention In China? The Benefits, Catches, and Secrets Behind Chinese Procurement

China is making some moves

Sell Your Invention In China

The fees, the agreements, the restrictions… You can understand when Chinese officials say that the country is retooling to become a country of technological innovation and less of a manufacturer. This positions China to move away from paying to use technology developed in other countries.

What many may not understand is how China is promoting innovation.

China's Investment Into Innovation

One of the largest markets available to multi-national corporations is that of gov’t procurement or products purchased by the gov’t of a country.

In the US, around $500billion is spent by the gov’t in procuring goods and services from foreign and domestic suppliers. Estimates say China spends in the neighborhood of $200billion and that number is growing rapidly.

It is not hard to figure out why many companies are interested in participating in such a large expenditure. They want to get in on a piece of that $200billion.

Advantage

In order to spur domestic innovation, China has implemented several policies that give a distinct advantage to domestic Chinese companies. Some may say that the “distinct advantage” afforded by the local Chinese policies actually translates more accurately into an exclusive opportunity to be considered for Chinese gov’t procurement funds (part of the $200billion).

One of the more controversial of these policies “favors” products that are tied to technology created or held by Chinese entities. This has caused quite a bit of turbulence in the global marketplace.

The result of these policies is that little to none of the ~$200billion is headed for your company… unless you get accredited by the Chinese gov’t.

Accreditation

In order to achieve the accredited status, one must apply to the Chinese gov’t. The catch? Only an entity having Chinese legal status may apply.

If your product is the subject of a patent or trademark, that patent or trademark must be owned by a legal Chinese entity. So… if you want to get a piece of the Chinese procurement market, be ready to serve up your intellectual property as well.

There are definite up-sides to being able to participate in the Chinese market but the costs to transfer your patents to a Chinese entity and rely on them in order to get a bite at the $200billion apple might be a bit steep.

What To Do Next?

We recommend discussing the matter with an experienced patent attorney.

You can schedule a free strategy session with one of the attorneys at Miller IP Law to discuss you options.







About the Firm...

Miller IP Law is a firm that focuses on small businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs/solopreneurs. We’re easy to use. We offer affordable pricing that’s transparent and flat-rate. We focus on the little guys who actually need our help. If you’d like an attorney on your team, simply schedule a Zoom call, and we’ll take care of the rest.


Top Blog Articles

1. Cheapest Way To Get A Patent

2. How Long Does It Take To Get A Trademark?

3. Why Are Patents Important?

Miller IP Law


Want to chat more about this topic, or got a burning question? Take advantage of instant chat and send us a direct message

 

Miller IP Law

Find Us On LinkedIn

About Our Firm…

Miller IP Law is a group of attorney's, based out of Mountain Green, Utah, who are excited to help you build your business and further innovate market places and economies. Please consider looking at our services, billed at flat rate, and be sure to grab a free strategy session to meet with us!

Start Your Journey

 

 

Get weekly stories and information about protecting intellectual property with our e-mail Newsletter today!



Need To Get In Touch With Us?➡

Schedule A Free Strategy Session Today…

Miller IP Law




Flat Fee Pricing

Straightforward for Patents and Trademarks



Miller IP Law

Patent Application

Miller IP Law

Trademark Application

Miller IP Law

Copyright Application

Read more →

How do I get Patent Protection for my Start-up Company?

Start-Ups & Patents

Miller IP Law

Starting a new company is an exciting and demanding venture. The excitement comes in engaging in something new with the potential for great success.

The demand on time and finances can, at times, overwhelm the excitement and stifle the drive that is needed to get a start-up off the ground.

Start-ups & Technology

In many instances, a start-up is built around a new technology or solution to a problem out there.

Protecting that tech or solution so that the start-up can have a fighting chance at competing out in the market should be high on the list of priorities.

The financial investment needed to provide immediate and full protection may be outside the budget of a fledgling start-up.

What Types Of Patents Are There
(And Which One Is Best For Start-Ups)?

One great option for a new company or venture is that of filing a Provisional patent application. Provisional applications are not well-known but offer distinct advantages to many who may be jumping into the startup waters.

This special type of filing provides a one-year reservation on a date which may be used for a full protection non-provisional patent.

The filing is simple; hand-sketches and descriptions, photos and notes all may be filed without too many formal requirements.

In some cases, the situation merits filing a provisional application prepared by a patent attorney to reduce the cost and time requirement in filing a non-provisional later on and to avoid potential issues that a do-it-yourself provisional may introduce.

While provisional filings are a very useful tool in many instances, filing a provisional patent application may not be the perfect fit in every situation.

There are several factors that one should consider before making the decision:

  • Budget – initial costs within the first 12 months vs. total costs over the life of the patent
  • Market Readiness – unknown market vs. known market ready for your invention
  • Speed – R&D vs. first to market
  • Infringement – possibility of infringers sooner vs. later
  • Licensing – commercialization by inventor vs. licensor

How Do I Get Started?

If a provisional patent application is something you think might add value to your startup, the attorneys at Miller IP Law can help walk you through the pros and cons of provisional filing and put a strategy in place by scheduling one of their Free Strategy Sessions.

In a strategy session, we briefly discuss your business and what patent options would be best for you.

There is zero commitment.

We are just interested in educating you one what would be best, what options are available, and why we may or may not be the best people to help you with it.

Schedule Your Free Strategy Session







About the Firm...

Miller IP Law is a firm that focuses on small businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs/solopreneurs. We’re easy to use. We offer affordable pricing that’s transparent and flat-rate. We focus on the little guys who actually need our help. If you’d like an attorney on your team, simply schedule a Zoom call, and we’ll take care of the rest.


Top Blog Articles

1. Cheapest Way To Get A Patent

2. How Long Does It Take To Get A Trademark?

3. Why Are Patents Important?

Miller IP Law


Want to chat more about this topic, or got a burning question? Take advantage of instant chat and send us a direct message

 

Miller IP Law

Find Us On LinkedIn

About Our Firm…

Miller IP Law is a group of attorney's, based out of Mountain Green, Utah, who are excited to help you build your business and further innovate market places and economies. Please consider looking at our services, billed at flat rate, and be sure to grab a free strategy session to meet with us!

Start Your Journey

 

 

Get weekly stories and information about protecting intellectual property with our e-mail Newsletter today!



Need To Get In Touch With Us?➡

Schedule A Free Strategy Session Today…

Miller IP Law




Flat Fee Pricing

Straightforward for Patents and Trademarks



Miller IP Law

Patent Application

Miller IP Law

Trademark Application

Miller IP Law

Copyright Application

Read more →

Meet Darrin Burnham ~ Associate Miller IP Law

Darrin Burnham is an attorney with Miller IP Law, with experience in a wide range of matters relating to Intellectual Property. Darrin enjoys representing clients at all levels, including several Fortune 100 companies, prominent local leaders in technology, as well as start-up companies in all stages and independent inventors. His practice encompasses a broad spectrum of technologies including software, electrical, chemical, mechanical, medical, and materials disciplines. Darrin is admitted to practice before the state and federal courts of Utah and is a registered patent attorney certified to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

UNIVERSITY OF UTAH AND UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON ALUMNI

 

During his undergraduate studies at the University of Utah, his electric marine motor design team secured the sole funding from the Grand Canyon River Outfitters Association by beating out several design teams from competing universities with his team’s prototype out on the river.

Darrin earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Dayton School of Law in Dayton, Ohio. Upon his graduation, Darrin was awarded the Law and Technology Certificate by the law school in recognition of his course concentration in intellectual property law and his completion of dual capstone projects in both Intellectual Property Licensing and Patent Litigation.

Before joining Miller IP Law, Darrin worked with prominent local and national law firms including Kunzler Bean & Adamson, Lowenstein Sandler (where he assisted in establishing the firm’s Utah office), and Holman IP Law (where Darrin assisted while completing his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Utah).

Patents, Trademarks, & Copyrights Expert Darrin Burnham at Miller IP Law

Miller IP Law

Darrin Burnham
Associate patent attorney at Miller IP Law that loves working with startups and small businesses


About Miller IP Law

Miller IP Law is a law firm that focuses on helping startups and small businesses with patents and trademarks.

Must Reads

Meet the Founder of Miller IP Law
What Makes Miller IP Law Different?

Small Town Farmer Mentality at a IP Law Firm      

Read more →

4 Easy Payments Plan

Instead of Paying Upfront, Pay with 4 Monthly Payments!

We've partnered with QuickFee financing to provide you with installment plans so that you can divide your bill into 4 monthly, payments! That way, you can get started on your patent or trademark in as little as one day! No matter your current funding level.

 


Patent and Trademark Financing with QuickFee

How Does It Work?

Step 1: Click on the "Get Started" Button

Step 2: Go through the quick Setup Process

Step 3: You'll be billed once per month for the next 4 months


QuickFee is a 3rd party lender. All loans that you receive from QuickFee will be handled by and paid back to QuickFee.

QuickFee will fund the loan, and you will receive all funds from QuickFee.  You may then use those funds to pay Miller IP Law for your patents, trademarks, etc. 

Miller IP Law is not a bank, nor do we do any 1st party loans.

Read more →

Example Evidence of Trademark Usage

Evidence of Use for Trademark Application

As part of a trademark application, we must show evidence that the above mark is being used in commerce or indicate in the application that the mark is not currently in use but that you intend to use the mark within up to 2 years. If you are currently using the mark in commerce please provide us with one or more examples of that use, similar to those shown below.

How do I Submit Evidence To My Attorney?

If you need to submit more evidence, feel free to email us at devin@milleripl.com with all of the graphics you would like to submit (JPEGs and PNGs work best).

As part of a trademark application, we must show evidence that the above mark is being used in commerce or indicate in the application that the mark is not currently in use but that you intend to use the mark within up to 2 years. If you are currently using the mark in commerce please provide us with one or more examples of that use, similar to those shown below.

What Counts as Evidence?

The Goods Themselves

You could submit a photo of the mark on the good itself.

Labels or Tags Attached to the Goods

You could submit a photo of a label or tag with the mark attached to the good.

Packaging for the Goods

You could submit a photo of packaging with the mark for the good.

Sales Display Signs/Placards where the Goods are Sold

You could submit a photo of product display.

WEB PAGES Selling the Goods

You could submit a photo/screenshot of a web page showing the mark where your goods are sold.

Software as Goods

You could submit a photo/screenshot of a software launch screen with the mark in an introductory message box, or a screenshot of a web page with enough information to download the software and the trademark appearing in the title bar.

Specimens for Services

You could submit a photo/screenshot of a newspaper of online advertisement for the services.







    About the Firm...

    Miller IP Law is a firm that focuses on small businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs/solopreneurs. We’re easy to use. We offer affordable pricing that’s transparent and flat-rate. We focus on the little guys who actually need our help. If you’d like an attorney on your team, simply schedule a Zoom call, and we’ll take care of the rest.


    Top Blog Articles

    1. Cheapest Way To Get A Patent

    2. How Long Does It Take To Get A Trademark?

    3. Why Are Patents Important?

    Miller IP Law


    Want to chat more about this topic, or got a burning question? Take advantage of instant chat and send us a direct message

     

    Miller IP Law

    Find Us On LinkedIn

    About Our Firm…

    Miller IP Law is a group of attorney's, based out of Mountain Green, Utah, who are excited to help you build your business and further innovate market places and economies. Please consider looking at our services, billed at flat rate, and be sure to grab a free strategy session to meet with us!

    Start Your Journey

     

     

    Get weekly stories and information about protecting intellectual property with our e-mail Newsletter today!



    Need To Get In Touch With Us?➡

    Schedule A Free Strategy Session Today…

    Miller IP Law




    Flat Fee Pricing

    Straightforward for Patents and Trademarks



    Miller IP Law

    Patent Application

    Miller IP Law

    Trademark Application

    Miller IP Law

    Copyright Application

    Read more →

    DIY Trademark Search

    Get your trademark search started

    Understand what has already been trademarked and whether those trademark(s) will hinder your ability to get a trademark.

    Read more →

    Strategies to prepare a patent portfolio people want

    If you have founded/co-founded an early-stage startup, you’re probably spending a significant amount of time raising funds. At an early stage, it can be difficult to attract funding sources, such as angel investors or venture capital (VC) because investors won't invest unless there is a unique value proposition.

    Serious VC firms understand the importance of IP (patents and trademarks) when valuing a business. Startups with appropriate IP protections in place are more likely to sustain a competitive advantage, reduce financial risks, and raise funds.

    To increase the value of your startup and the odds of securing an investment, here are a few things to consider for your IP portfolio. 

    What investors want to see in a startup

    1. A Patent strategy

    Investors want to see that your startup has a plan of what is proprietary to your startup and how to protect it.

    A patent strategy should align with your business goals and be forward-looking. You should be able to explain how your patents fit into your overall business strategy.

    Will your plan be to develop a market for your product, thwart knockoffs, and own the market? Will your plan be to develop strategic partnerships and license your patents?

    2. Know your competition

    Investors want to know where your invention fits into the market relative to competitors. A patent strategy demonstrates that you have thought about whether your product is viable and is superioer to the competition.

    Additionally, a good patent strategy will cause potential competitors to make a difficult decision about whether they want to risk infringing your patents by entering the market. Further, a good patent portfolio can provide a war chest to fight competitors who accuse you of infringement.

    3. Own your patents

    To attract venture funding, you must own your patents. You should not have obligations to competitors, previous employers, estranged inventors, or other parties. Make sure to document your ownership of your patent applications and issued patents and get good confidentiality and invention assignment agreements (CIAAs) in place. Also, avoid agreements granting broad licenses to others, such as grants.

    What investors don't care about in a startup

    1. Freedom to Operation Opinion

    A conventional patent search provides a landscape view of whether an invention may be patentable. Many people incorrectly believe that a patent search indicates whether a startup could be sued for infringing somebody else’s patent. However, this type of analysis is known as a freedom to operate or an IP clearance search.

    Generally, a freedom to operate search is usually not necessary for attracting funding as it isn't realistic to expect a startup to know with certainty that they will never infringe another company’s patent (especially given most startups pivot several times before finding market fit). 

    Investors just want to know that the startup is not aware of any major roadblocks from entering an industry/space.

    2. A major law firm representing your startup

    Many startups assume that the best patent attorneys are the ones working at big expensive law firms ("Big Law"). These “Big Law” patent attorneys are expensive and can quickly drain a startup’s limited resources.

    Many investors know that you can get high-quality representation at small firms 

    Additionally, investors will usually have their own patent attorneys look at your portfolio, so regardless of who your patent attorney/firm is, the investors will get independent evaluations of the quality of your patent portfolio.

    Read more →

    Schedule a Meeting with Devin Miller

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    Schedule a Meeting with Jedi Knight

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    Leave A Review - Sara Taylor

    THANK YOU!

    Thank you for writing a review of Sara Taylor, our stand-up paralegal! They significantly help our potential customers know whether or not we are good at our jobs, and help us reach and help other startups and small businesses. Thank you!

     

    Here are 3 ways you can review us:

    1) Record a brief video testimonial (if you can only do one thing, please do this one)

    2) Write a review on Google (if you really want to help us out, please do this one too)

    3) Write a recommendation on LinkedIn (if we did a REALLY awesome job, do all 3!)


    How To Record A Video TESTIMONIAL

    Using our Hippo Video page, you can create your own video testimonial, and it will only take you 1-3 minutes. Video testimonials help you tell your story of how Miller IP Law has helped you achieve your goals to get a patent or trademark, and allows viewers to know whether or not to use Miller IP Law. You can use the web page below to record, review, and submit your video review in just 4 clicks!

     

    We may post your testimonial on our website and social media, but will not allow others to use it. We may even use snippets of your video in future promotional materials. Your contact information (email, etc.) will be kept confidential. 

    How To Write A Review On Google

    Go to Miller IP Law's search result page, and simply click on the "Write a review" button.

     

    Then give us a brief description of why you like us and whatever star rating you feel we deserve.


    How To Write A RECOMMENDATION on LinkedIn

    To write a LinkedIn recommendation, simply visit Sara's profile, and scroll down to the "Recommendations" section to write them a quick recommendation.

     

    Sara Taylor: Go to Sara's LinkedIn

     


    That's it! Please feel free to recommend us on these (or any other) platforms. We really appreciate it!

     

    If you have any friends that may need help with their patents or trademarks, feel free to have them schedule a Free Strategy Session.


    Photo Credit for the first graphic goes to You X Ventures for sharing their work on Unsplash. Thanks You X Ventures!

    Read more →

    Leave A Review - Devin Miller

    THANK YOU!

    Thank you for writing a review of Devin Miller! They significantly help our potential customers know whether or not we are good at our jobs, and help us reach and help other startups and small businesses. Thank you!

     

    Here are 3 ways you can review us:

    1) Record a brief video testimonial (if you can only do one thing, please do this one)

    2) Write a review on Google (if you really want to help us out, please do this one too)

    3) Write a recommendation on LinkedIn (if we did a REALLY awesome job, do all 3!)


    How To Record A Video TESTIMONIAL

    Using our Hippo Video page, you can create your own video testimonial, and it will only take you 1-3 minutes. Video testimonials help you tell your story of how Miller IP Law has helped you achieve your goals to get a patent or trademark, and allows viewers to know whether or not to use Miller IP Law. You can use the web page below to record, review, and submit your video review in just 4 clicks!

     

    We may post your testimonial on our website and social media, but will not allow others to use it. We may even use snippets of your video in future promotional materials. Your contact information (email, etc.) will be kept confidential. 

    How To Write A Review On Google

    Go to Miller IP Law's search result page, and simply click on the "Write a review" button.

     

    Then give us a brief description of why you like us and whatever star rating you feel we deserve.


    How To Write A RECOMMENDATION on LinkedIn

    To write a LinkedIn recommendation, simply visit Devin's profile, and scroll down to the "Recommendations" section to write them a quick recommendation.

     

    Devin Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milleripl/


    That's it! Please feel free to recommend us on these (or any other) platforms. We really appreciate it!

     

    If you have any friends that may need help with their patents or trademarks, feel free to have them schedule a Free Strategy Session.


    Photo Credit for the first graphic goes to You X Ventures for sharing their work on Unsplash. Thanks You X Ventures!

    Read more →

    Leave A Review - Jedi Knight

    THANK YOU!

    Thank you for writing a review of our stellar attorney, Jedi Knight! They significantly help our potential customers know whether or not we are good at our jobs, and help us reach and help other startups and small businesses. Thank you!

     

    Here are 3 ways you can review us:

    1) Record a brief video testimonial (if you can only do one thing, please do this one)

    2) Write a review on Google (if you really want to help us out, please do this one too)

    3) Write a recommendation on LinkedIn (if we did a REALLY awesome job, do all 3!)


    How To Record A Video TESTIMONIAL

    Using our Hippo Video page, you can create your own video testimonial, and it will only take you 1-3 minutes. Video testimonials help you tell your story of how Miller IP Law has helped you achieve your goals to get a patent or trademark, and allows viewers to know whether or not to use Miller IP Law. You can use the web page below to record, review, and submit your video review in just 4 clicks!

     

    We may post your testimonial on our website and social media, but will not allow others to use it. We may even use snippets of your video in future promotional materials. Your contact information (email, etc.) will be kept confidential. 

    How To Write A Review On Google

    Go to Miller IP Law's search result page, and simply click on the "Write a review" button.

     

    Then give us a brief description of why you like us and whatever star rating you feel we deserve.


    How To Write A RECOMMENDATION on LinkedIn

    To write a LinkedIn recommendation, simply visit Jedi's profile, and scroll down to the "Recommendations" section to write them a quick recommendation.

     


    That's it! Please feel free to recommend us on these (or any other) platforms. We really appreciate it!

     

    If you have any friends that may need help with their patents or trademarks, feel free to have them schedule a Free Strategy Session.


    Photo Credit for the first graphic goes to You X Ventures for sharing their work on Unsplash. Thanks You X Ventures!

    Read more →

    Let people know what you think by leaving a review - Miller IP Law

    THANK YOU!

    Thank you for writing a review! They significantly help our potential customers know whether or not we are good at our jobs, and help us reach and help other startups and small businesses. Thank you!

     

    Here are 2 ways you can review us:

    1) Write a review on Google: here (if you can only do one thing, please do this one) 

    2) Write a recommendation on LinkedIn (if you do this one also, you are outstanding)


    HOW TO WRITE A REVIEW ON GOOGLE

    Click here or go to Miller IP Law's search result page, and simply click on the "Write a review" button.

     

    Then give us a brief description of why you like us and whatever star rating you feel we deserve.

    How to Write a Review on LinkedIn

    To write a LinkedIn recommendation, simply visit one of the following profiles, and scroll down to the "Recommendations" section to write them a quick recommendation.

     

    Devin Miller: Go to Devin's LinkedIn

    Sara Taylor: Go to Sara's LinkedIn


     

    That's it! Please feel free to recommend us on these (or any other) platforms. We really appreciate it!

     

    If you have any friends that may need help with their patents or trademarks, feel free to have them schedule a Free Strategy Meeting.


    Photo Credit for the first graphic goes to You X Ventures for sharing their work on Unsplash. Thanks You X Ventures!

    Read more →

    Invention Disclosure Forms: A How To Guide

    Apple’s first patent for the iPhone, submitted in 2007, had humble beginnings. It was listed simply as an "ornamental design of an electronic device, as shown and described." Little did we know that by 2011, Apple would sell over 18 million units worldwide, rendering this invention one of the most ubiquitous devices of our generation. With technology developing at a rapid rate these days, it’s anyone’s guess what the next great invention will be. Whether you’re still testing out ideas or at the prototype stage of making your vision a reality, it’s important to recognize the value of your work product. Taking the time to prepare an invention disclosure form will allow you to record evidence that this unique invention is yours (or your company’s) and get you started on the patenting process. Here at Miller IP Law, we’re dedicated to empowering our clients with knowledge and protecting their interests with innovative strategies. In today’s post, we’ll provide you with a primer on how to get started on invention disclosure forms.

    What is an Invention Disclosure Record?

    An invention disclosure record (IDR) is a form that documents important facts and technical information relating to the invention, the inventors involved, and the earliest invention date. This form also acts as a business record for your company so that you have documentation showing your rights to the invention. The IDR will also include any sponsorship information for your invention. An IDR can be filled out and completed by any of the inventors and should be factually accurate. If there are multiple inventors, each inventor should receive a copy of the IDR for his/her records. Wondering whether you even need an IDR or patent for your invention? Let’s examine what makes an invention patentable. First, you should know there are three kinds of patents: utility, design, and plant. A utility patent protects inventions that fall under the following categories: process, machine, article of manufacture, composition of matter, and improvement of any of the above. The invention must be new, nonobvious, and useful. A design patent protects the ornamental design of a manufactured item (this is the nature of the patent that Apple submitted in 2007. A plant patent protects asexually reproduced plant varieties by design and plant patents. Here’s what cannot be patented: Laws of nature Physical phenomena Abstract ideas Literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works (these can be copyright protected, though, which is a different application). Related: Is Software Protected By Copyrights or Patents?

    Why Do You Need to Submit an IDR?

    Miller IP Law

    Submitting an IDR is a great idea for various reasons, most of which will help you streamline invention procedures at your company, save time, and protect your professional interests. Let’s look at some of these reasons in detail.

    Expedite Your Patent Process

    Preparing an IDR will help speed up your patent process. Because invention dates are important when it comes to locking down a patent for your invention (the U.S. is a first-to-file nation, which means generally whoever files first gets the patent), you want to do whatever you can to expedite the process. By already having an IDR prepared, you have proof of your invention date. In a situation where some other inventor may have invented something similar, you have the advantage of a formal business record noting when you came up with your invention.

    Make Your Patent Process More Efficient

    Because you’ve already included a lot of pertinent information and facts related to your invention in the IDR, you’ll have everything at your disposal when it comes time to file a patent application with the USPTO (or other patent organization). If the IDR is accurately and thoroughly filled out, you’ll have an easier time completing the application for patenting your invention.

    Improve the Quality of Your Application

    Ideally, you’d complete the IDR soon after completing work on the invention when the facts are fresh in your mind. Thus, all the important technical details of the invention are already incorporated into the IDR and when it comes time to fill out the patent application, you won’t have to go back and try to remember all the work you’ve done. As a result, your patent application will be detailed and of a higher quality than those prepared without the help of an IDR.

    Protect your intellectual property and commercial interests

    Establishing the invention date on your IDR will protect your company’s commercial interests should you decide to file a patent application. Both you and the USPTO (or other governing organization) will know that you were the first to invent and when your product goes to market, the credit (and hopefully, profits) will be attributed to your company.

    Market Your Invention to Investors

    An IDR can be useful in describing your inventions to possible investors. Be sure to get them to fill out a Nondisclosure Form first. Related: What Do Investors Look For In Patents?

    What Information Should an IDR Include?

    Miller IP Law

    An IDR consists of nine essential elements that must be included in order to be valid. They include a title of invention, inventor’s name and contact information, significant dates, description of invention, prior art, public disclosures of the invention and commercial activity, funding sources, witnesses, and signatures. Read on to see what each element means and how to complete your IDR.

    Title of Invention

    Don’t feel pressured to come up with an original title for your invention. A simple descriptive title will do. The title for Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.’s 2003 patent was a succinct one: “cellular phone.” Just be sure that the title describes the invention and that it differentiates itself from any other IDRs your company is preparing so that they don’t get mixed up.

    Inventor’s Name and Contact Info

    Include a list of every inventor or individual who was substantially involved in the creation of your invention. Be sure to list their full names, complete contact information, and employee identification information, if any. Keep in mind that the question of formal inventorship is a legal issue that will be determined when it comes time to submit your patent application. An experienced patent attorney can help you figure out who to include in the IDR and whether they’ll constitute formal inventors for purposes of submitting a patent.

    Significant Dates

    Some important dates you may want to include in your IDR are: When the idea for the invention first came about If any new inventors or contributors joined the team during the invention process, list the dates they joined the team Dates of sketches that show the development of the invention Dates you created a working model of the invention Date you first put the invention into practice Dates you began, updated, and completed the IDR

    Description of Invention

    Miller IP Law

    This portion of the IDR will take the most time and thought. Don’t be discouraged if this part takes you several weeks to complete as it is the most important component of the form. Taking the time to fill out this portion accurately will help you later on because this section is similar to the section where you’ll describe the invention for a patent application. Here are some guidelines to help you get started with a description: State the challenge that your invention aims to solve Describe the physical structure and features of your invention Explain how your invention works Write a summary of the invention that shows how your invention is different from others. This brings up a question of prior art, which means you need to show how your invention isn’t just a copy of something that was already available to the public (read more about this in the next section). Be sure to provide a detailed explanation as to how your invention is distinguishable from prior art that is most like your invention. In what ways is your invention more advanced and technologically sound? What parts of your invention are unique? Include any alternative approaches to solving the same problem and why they do or don’t work. If you’ve used any terms that readers may be unfamiliar with, be sure to explain what those terms mean Include test data and relevant findings relating to your invention Add clearly labeled graphs, diagrams, and drawings you’ve used in the invention process Conclude with any significant findings and results you derived from testing out the product and why your invention is a helpful contribution to the industry Related: Is Your Invention Worth Patenting?

    Prior Art

    Prior art is one of the most common reasons patent applications are rejected. What is prior art exactly? It’s defined by a federal statute: 35 U.S. Code §102, which states that prior art is anything already “patented, described in a printed publication, or in public use, on sale, or otherwise available to the public before the effective filing date of the claimed invention.” In short, prior art can include any product, use, publication, demonstration, knowledge, idea, presentation, or even previously filed patent application that was publicly disclosed or somehow made available to the public. Geography doesn’t matter when it comes to prior art. Even if someone in another remote country presented an idea for your invention before you filed your application, it constitutes prior art and would render your invention not “novel” under the federal statute. This brings focus back to the importance of timing when it comes to your IDR and patent application. Your IDR will show when you started work on your invention and can be used as evidence in the event a discussion of prior art arises with regard to your patent application.

    Public Disclosures of the Invention and Commercial Activity

    You must also disclose whether you’ve made any information relating to your invention publicly available and whether you’ve sold the invention to another company. Even if you only offered the invention for sale without actually selling it, this must be disclosed as well because it constitutes commercial activity. Including this information is important for your IDR and patent application because you have one year from the date of public disclosure and/or commercial activity to file a valid patent application. If you wait longer than a year, your invention is no longer eligible to be patented. It’s important to keep in mind that this one year grace period is only for patents in the U.S. Some foreign patent organizations may not offer a year period, so be sure to check the relevant statutes if you’re looking to apply for a patent in another country.

    Funding Sources

    Hopefully, you or your company has kept track of any external sources of funding for your invention, if any. You must disclose any funding sources in your IDR, including government funding sources. This is important to determining invention ownership with regard to your patent application later on.

    Witnesses

    An IDR requires the signature of one witness who was not an inventor or researcher and not involved in the creation or funding of the invention. Essentially, there should be no direct affiliation between the invention and the party witnessing and signing the IDR. The only other requirement is that the witness be able to understand the technical portions of the IDR.

    Signatures

    At least one of the inventors should sign the IDR. It’s advisable to get all the inventors to sign off on the IDR as soon as possible to make sure your documentation is complete. Related: How Long Does It Take and How Much Does It Cost To Get a Patent?

    How Can Miller IP Law Help?

    Miller IP Law

    As you can see from our discussion above, completing an invention disclosure form takes a lot of time and thought but is worth it to document and record your unique invention. It pays to patent your work and establish your invention date so that you can protect your interests while sharing your contribution with the world. Understandably, you may have questions after reading today’s blog and we’re here to help. Give us a call at Miller IP to set up a strategy session. We have a genuine interest in educating our clients and helping them learn more about their intellectual property rights. Take a look at what we can do for you here.







    About the Firm...

    Miller IP Law is a firm that focuses on small businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs/solopreneurs. We’re easy to use. We offer affordable pricing that’s transparent and flat-rate. We focus on the little guys who actually need our help. If you’d like an attorney on your team, simply schedule a Zoom call, and we’ll take care of the rest.


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    Miller IP Law is a group of attorney's, based out of Mountain Green, Utah, who are excited to help you build your business and further innovate market places and economies. Please consider looking at our services, billed at flat rate, and be sure to grab a free strategy session to meet with us!

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    Why Are Patents Important: A Beginners Guide

    An ongoing eight-year legal battle between UC Berkeley (UCB) and the Broad Institute illustrates the importance of a patent when it comes to protecting your intellectual property rights. In 2013, UCB published a paper on revolutionary gene-editing techniques that scientists could recreate in a test tube. Only months after, the Broad Institute published research showing these gene-editing processes would be useful in cells. 

    Both entities filed applications to patent this gene-editing technology, called CRISPR/Cas9, but the Broad paid an extra fee to have its application reviewed sooner. Because UCB neglected to do the same, the Broad was granted patent rights to CRISPR by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). UCB argued that the Broad’s findings were obvious in light of UCB’s paper, which was published first, and a long war over claims to CRISPR ensued.

    Stories like this show us how a patent challenge can easily arise, even with large organizations that have considerable experience in the field of genetic research. How can your company protect its intellectual interests with a patent? At Miller IP Law, we’re devoted to educating and empowering our clients with valuable knowledge and legal resources. Keep reading to learn how patents work and how they can help protect your business’ assets.

    Related: Is Your Invention Worth Patenting?

    Here is How Patents Work

    Scientist holding test tube

    What exactly is a patent, and how does it work? A patent is an exclusive property right to an invention. Whether a company can claim those rights is determined by a governing organization, like the USPTO. Generally, those rights are only valid in the country or region in which the patent was filed.

    This right protects the interests of the company for 20 years (design rights can also be patented.  In the U.S., a design patent lasts for 14 years). The 20-year protection period starts at the time the inventor files the patent application. The U.S. is a first-to-file nation, which means whoever files the patent first receives the intellectual property rights over others who have filed applications for the same invention.

    An invention is defined by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) as a product or process in any field of technology. This can range from products as simple as a can-opener to a chip device that enables Bluetooth communication. A governing organization that grants patent rights will examine the patent application carefully to make sure the invention is novel, non-obvious, capable of industrial application (not just a theory), and sufficiently disclosed in a complete patent application.

    Related: What is Not Patentable?

    Where Do You File for a Patent?

    A patent is granted by a regional or national patent office that handles patents for a country or group of countries. Here’s a list of regional patent offices that are currently in operation:

    • African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI)
    • African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO)
    • Eurasian Patent Organization (EAPO)
    • European Patent Office (EPO)
    • Patent Office of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC Patent Office)

    The five largest patent offices in the world are the USPTO, the European Patent Office (EPO), the Japan Patent Office (JPO), the Korean Patent Office (KPO), and the National Intellectual Property Administration (NIPA) of China. Together, this group of large offices is often referred to as IP5 and grants an average of 1 million patents per year. However, there are also patent offices across the world outside of the IP5. Check out WIPO’s directory of intellectual property offices to learn more.

    What if You Can’t Pay Filing Fees?

    Depending on the type of invention, applying for a patent can become costly if the product or process is a complicated one. Check out the USPTO’s fee schedule for filing patents to get an idea of how much it would cost to file a patent for your invention.  As you can see, the USPTO charges different fees depending on the type of patent you’re applying for and the size of your business. Fortunately, USPTO fees are lower for small businesses and micro-entities. 

    However, the costs can add up when you factor in fees for conducting a patent search, examination fees, re-filing fees, extension fees, and maintenance fees. There are even additional fees if you’re submitting a technology application, and you submit over 100 pages. There may be more fees on top of that if your application includes a certain amount of drawings. What’s a small business to do if these costs are more than your company can handle?

    Assuming your business doesn’t have the money upfront but can pay the fees over time, a good option is the provisional patent process. This process allows you to file a description of your product with the USPTO to obtain an early filing date and file the patent within 12 months so that you have a reasonable amount of time to pay for all the necessary application fees during the year.

    Related: How To Do An Initial Patent Search Myself

    How Long Does it Take to Receive a Patent?

    Hourglass

    Because most patent offices often have a substantial backlog of applications to review, the entire process can take several years for a first-time patent application. Once your application is complete and has been submitted to the patent office, the office may contact you with questions or for more information (this is called an “office action”), to which you must reply within a specified time. There are times where the office may have to contact you several times, which can extend the application process even more.

    Keeping in mind how long a patent application process can take, companies should factor this lengthy procedure into their business plans and timeline, especially if receiving a patent is key to the company’s future growth. 

    Here is Why You Should Patent Your Inventions 

    Even though applying for a patent may cost you some money and take a while to come to fruition, there are many advantages to having a patent for your invention. Depending on your company’s goals and priorities, the benefits of owning a patent may far outweigh the time and efforts spent to complete a patent application. Let’s look at some of these benefits in closer detail.

    Exclusive Rights

    Having exclusive rights means your company can profit from the hard work that went into creating your invention. The patent protects your company’s right to exploit the invention however you see fit without having to worry about other companies profiting from your ideas. Having this protection for 20 years is surely advantageous to any company hoping to establish itself in today’s highly competitive market.

    Related: How To Enforce a Patent as a Startup or Small Business

    Strong Market Position

    A patent affords a company strong market position as compared to other companies in the same industry. The 20-year patent disallows others from receiving a commercial profit from your ideas, which dramatically reduces the amount of competition for your product. As a result, your company becomes the go-to brand for your invention and establishes itself as the front-runner in your chosen field.

    Higher Returns on Investments

    After spending time and resources on developing your invention, you can receive a high return on your investments by gaining the commercial advantages of having a patent. The profits to be gained on an invention with very little competition in the market for 20 years can bolster your company’s resources and allow you to fund future innovations as well.

    Opportunity to Sell the Invention

    Two people shaking hands

    For businesses that don’t want to take the time to commercially exploit the invention, selling the rights to the invention may be another profitable option. You’ve done the work and acquired the patent; now you can profit by selling the fruits of your effort to receive more income to keep your business running. The fact that your company owns the exclusive rights and already has a patent for the product will be a high sell point that can reap substantial rewards.

    Positive Image for Enterprise

    Being able to prove you invented the product or process means you have a better chance of securing potential investors and other funding resources for your company. Shareholders, investors, and potential business partners will view your patent portfolio as something that increases your value and thus gives you more bargaining power as a company. For example, another business may see your patented invention as relevant to their ventures, and you may enter into a cross-licensing agreement to exchange exclusive rights to your work. 

    Finally, owning a patent for its invention establishes your company as an innovator in the industry. A company that is the first to invent something useful will be seen as having considerable expertise, specialized knowledge, and impressive technological capabilities. In an economy where brand loyalty, reliability, and reputation are paramount, owning a patent allows your company to build its market value and secure a coveted and respected position in the market.

    Related: What Do Investors Look For in Patents?

    How Can You Get Started On Applying for a Patent?

    Person writing on sheets of paper

    If you’re a small business or startup with innovative ideas, it may be time to start thinking about whether a patent is right for you. Depending on your goals and priorities, the benefits that come with a patent can help you greatly in the long run. Applying for a patent can be a lengthy process, but you may decide the benefits substantially outweigh the time and costs involved. 

    Take some time to research whether a patent is appropriate for your product or process. At Miller IP, we hope to provide you with the tools you need to protect your intellectual property interests. Schedule a strategy session with us today to learn more about applying for a patent for your invention.

    Related: Top Questions To Ask When Hiring a Patent Attorney







    About the Firm...

    Miller IP Law is a firm that focuses on small businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs/solopreneurs. We’re easy to use. We offer affordable pricing that’s transparent and flat-rate. We focus on the little guys who actually need our help. If you’d like an attorney on your team, simply schedule a Zoom call, and we’ll take care of the rest.


    Top Blog Articles

    1. Cheapest Way To Get A Patent

    2. How Long Does It Take To Get A Trademark?

    3. Why Are Patents Important?

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    About Our Firm…

    Miller IP Law is a group of attorney's, based out of Mountain Green, Utah, who are excited to help you build your business and further innovate market places and economies. Please consider looking at our services, billed at flat rate, and be sure to grab a free strategy session to meet with us!

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    Flat Fee Pricing

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    Patent Application

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    Meet with Devin Miller

    If you want to meet with Devin Miller, an expert attorney that specializes in working with small businesses and high-potential startups, use the calendar below to schedule a meeting.




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    Schedule a Free Strategy Meeting & Paid Consultation

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    Sign Up For Your Free Strategy Meeting

    Talk's cheap. Let's take action.

    Schedule a free strategy meeting, and we promise you, you'll notice a difference.

    Simply schedule a time that's convenient for you, we'll send you a Zoom link & a reminder, and we'll be able to meet over Zoom.

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    What Can A Strategy Meeting Do For You?

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    Who Needs A Strategy Session?

    Local Business Owners

    If you own a local business, you need to ensure that your logo, brand, and slogans are protected.

    If you've also come up with a revolutionary new system/invention, you can patent it to ensure that no one else can block you out of using your own creation.

    It will also give you the ability to sell/license it out to other companies as well!

    Founders / Owners

    If you're a startup, you probably want all of your blood, sweat, and tears to pay off in the long run.

    Without a patent or trademark to protect it, it can potentially be taken from you.

    Protect your ideas so you can find partners, investors, and manufacturers.

    IP can also add value to your startup, which can be leveraged to find more investments.

    CEOs / In-House Counsel

    Large companies produce countless innovations, products, and systems that can be patented.

    Ensure that all of the time, money, and resources that you poured into your R&D isn't wasted by losing your patent rights.

    Schedule a meeting today to discover what IP protection can do for you!

     

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    Meet Sara Taylor ~ Paralegal at Miller IP Law

    Meet Sara

    Sara is an Intellectual Property Paralegal with over ten years of experience. Sara assists Miller IP Law attorneys with coordinating and filing patent and trademark documents with the USPTO and managing dockets. She also helps clients stay informed about their intellectual property rights.

    Sara has a B.A. in from Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon and a Paralegal Studies Certificate from Anne Arundel Community College in Maryland. Sara is also a U.S. Air Force veteran, and returned to Portland, Oregon in 2010, where she lives with her husband and two children.

    About Miller IP Law

    Miller IP Law is a law firm that focuses on helping startups and small businesses with patents and trademarks.

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    About the Firm...

    Miller IP Law is a firm that focuses on small businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs/solopreneurs. We’re easy to use. We offer affordable pricing that’s transparent and flat-rate. We focus on the little guys who actually need our help. If you’d like an attorney on your team, simply schedule a Zoom call, and we’ll take care of the rest.


    Top Blog Articles

    1. Cheapest Way To Get A Patent

    2. How Long Does It Take To Get A Trademark?

    3. Why Are Patents Important?

    Miller IP Law


    Want to chat more about this topic, or got a burning question? Take advantage of instant chat and send us a direct message

     

    Miller IP Law

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    About Our Firm…

    Miller IP Law is a group of attorney's, based out of Mountain Green, Utah, who are excited to help you build your business and further innovate market places and economies. Please consider looking at our services, billed at flat rate, and be sure to grab a free strategy session to meet with us!

    Start Your Journey

     

     

    Get weekly stories and information about protecting intellectual property with our e-mail Newsletter today!



    Need To Get In Touch With Us?➡

    Schedule A Free Strategy Session Today…

    Miller IP Law




    Flat Fee Pricing

    Straightforward for Patents and Trademarks



    Miller IP Law

    Patent Application

    Miller IP Law

    Trademark Application

    Miller IP Law

    Copyright Application

    Read more →

    Deferred Payment Program


    Overview: 

    • Get your patent/trademark started now, complete the creation and drafting process, and don't pay anything until you file it.
    • Anyone who wants to patent/trademark something is eligible.
    • Start the process by signing up for a free strategy session with one of our attorneys at the bottom of the page today.

    As I sit around my house bored out of my mind for the 2nd or 3rd week in a row, my mind can’t help but think about my next new idea. As I toss the ball against the wall and catch it, my mind is reeling with innovative ways to streamline my work when I get back. What new products can we launch? What new software developments might make things more efficient?



    For many inventors like me, there is a ton of time to invent, but very little funding right now to start the IP process. Well, there is a new program that will help you get your patents sooner rather than later. During this crisis, Miller IP Law has decided to start a revolutionary new program, the Deferred Payment Program. You can get started on the process of making your idea patented right now without having to pay ANYTHING until the day that you file it.


    HOW DOES THE DEFERRED PAYMENT PROGRAM WORK?

    FIRST WE START WITH A FREE ONE-ON-ONE STRATEGY SESSION

    Strategy sessions are crucial for success with patent applications. In this 15-30 minute meeting, our expert attorneys will go through your product and strategize the best way to go about getting your patent/trademark.

    THEN, WE CREATE & DRAFT YOUR APPLICATION

    Then our expert attorneys will go through the process of creating and drafting your patent/trademark to get it ready to send to the US Patent and Trademark Office (or your country's equivalent). Elsewhere, you would normally be charged for this step, but for the Deferred Payment Program, you won't need to pay until the day you file.

    AFTER THE ECONOMY RECOVERS AND YOU DECIDE YOU ARE READY TO PAY, WE FILE

    If/When you are ready, we will charge you for the creation, drafting, and filing steps and your patent/trademark will be filed. This is the very first time you will be charged for any & all of the steps.

    Schedule A FREE Strategy Session Today

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