Patents are complex, and obtaining them is only part of the hurdle. As a business consultant working with innovative founders, I get a lot of questions about patents. While I am not a patent attorney, I will share 4 basic facts about patents that will give you an idea about protecting your intellectual property through this route.

Obtaining patents is certainly a complex path. You must consult a patent attorney if you wish to do so. However, to get started, I will share 4 basic facts about patents that will give you an idea of what to expect. 

1. Patents are expensive 

First of all, patents cost a lot. As an example, let’s look at the UK:

Summary of Costs

  • Filing Fee: £60 (online) or £80 (paper).
  • Search Fee: £150.
  • Examination Fee: £100.
  • Grant Fee: £70.
  • Attorney Fees: £1,500 to £4,000+.
  • Maintenance Fees: Starting from £70 annually.

As you notice, the key costs are associated with patent attornies, which you must consult if you decide to file and register a patent. 

For more information on UK patent costs, check here.

2. Patents take time 

It takes time to register a patent. On average, you are looking at 1 to 2 years (although this may vary). However, the key principle is that, unlike trade marks, patents are more complex and time-consuming. 

3. They are jurisdictional

Similar to trade marks, patents usually cover a certain jurisdiction, for instance, the UK. 

If you wish to obtain multi-jurisdictional protection, there are higher fees. 

4. Obtaining a patent is not the end 

Lastly, it should be noted that obtaining a patent is not the end of the line. 

Your competitors, often firms with more resources, will most likely seek to find a way around your patent or worse, get into a legal patent battle with you. 

And what must be noted is that these legal battles will cost you, a lot. 

If you are seeking to register a patent, it is important to consult a patent attorney. Working with me as your business consultant includes introducing you to one to ensure you obtain solid advice before making any decisions and investing your resources. 

About | My name is Sohrab Vazir. I’m a UK-based entrepreneur and business consultant. At the age of 22, and while I was an international student (graduate), I started my own Property Technology (PropTech) business. Now I help aspiring business owners and job seekers fulfil their potential.