What happens during the initial discussion with Mattis IP?

The initial discussion is intended to understand the invention, the people and organizations involved, relevant filing or disclosure history, upcoming deadlines, and the client’s commercial objectives. Mattis IP may ask how the invention works, which features appear most important, what alternatives have been considered, and how the technology differs from known approaches. The discussion also […]

Do I need a prototype before filing a patent application?

No. A working prototype is not ordinarily required to file a U.S. patent application. An inventor may file before building the final product, provided the invention has been developed in sufficient detail to be described clearly and completely. The application should explain how the invention is made and used with enough technical detail to support […]

Will my invention remain confidential if I contact Mattis IP?

Mattis IP treats information received in connection with evaluating or handling a potential patent matter with appropriate confidentiality. Registered patent practitioners are subject to professional obligations concerning confidential information. However, sending information through a website form or email does not by itself confirm that Mattis IP has accepted the matter or created a practitioner-client relationship. […]

What information should I prepare before contacting Mattis IP?

A useful starting package is a clear explanation of the invention, the problem it solves, and the features believed to distinguish it from existing products or methods. Helpful materials may include sketches, diagrams, photographs, technical notes, presentations, test results, product requirements, flowcharts, source materials, or an existing draft. The materials do not need to be […]

How do I know whether my invention may be patentable?

Patentability depends on more than whether an idea is useful or commercially promising. In general, the claimed invention must fall within patent-eligible subject matter and satisfy requirements such as novelty, non-obviousness, and adequate technical disclosure. The analysis is highly dependent on the specific features of the invention and what was already publicly known before the […]