Drafting and filing the patent application
Below is a chart shows who the inventor and attorney work together to write and file a typical patent application
Below is a overall summary of steps to write and file a patent application:
1. Inventor documents invention and keeps it secret
2. inventor does prior art search
3. inventor estimates commercial potential
4. Initial consulatation/call with patent attorney
5. attorney review invention disclosure and inventor found references
6. attorney provides written cost estimate for services and engagement/service agreement
7. inventor decides on services, sends retainer check and signed agreement
8. detailed inventor interview - inventor finalizes figs and description
9. key novel features identified by attorney/inventor
10. professional Novelty search performed (optional but recommended)
11. decision whether to pursue patent made
12. 1st draft patent written by attorney and reviewed by inventor
13. 2nd draft patent written by attorney and reviewed by inventor
14. final patent application written by attorney and reviewed and signed by inventor