The process of patenting an invention is a difficult one, requiring an immense investment of time and funds. The process can stretch to several years, and patent applicants can expect to spend several thousand dollars in the process. That is why it is important to work with an experienced patent agency like Invent Help.
Typically, patent agent work is billed on an hourly basis. The hourly rate is settled at the time of engagement, along with the other terms under which work is undertaken. In addition, depending on the nature of the client and the nature of the work, a retainer may also be required. The purpose of the retainer is to defray initial costs and to provide a source of funds against which work may be billed. The necessity of a retainer and the size of the retainer are decided on a case-by-case basis.
In addition to fees for professional help for new inventors, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and other foreign and international patent authorities, have set certain standardized fees that must be paid when certain actions are taken (e.g., filing, final approval of the application, appeal, etc.), and clients will be asked to pay those fees. Clients will also be asked to pay the fees for the services of any outside vendors who are retained in the course of the work (e.g., draftsmen, patent search firms, etc.).
It is important to keep in mind that there is no guarantee that a patent will be issued if a patent application is filed. Moreover, no patent attorney or agent can guarantee a client that he or she will obtain a patent.