History

Laws regarding patents date back to 500 B.C. in Italy where inventor's rights were first secured. The evolution of patents continued in Italy through the 1400 and 1500's. Modern day patent law in the United States is derived from this history.

Significance and Effects

A patent is a licensed right given to an inventor to exclude others from making and exploiting the same invention. This right typically extends to 20 years after the patent is filed.

Application Process

Most countries have government patent offices that process and issue patents. In the United States, an extensive patent application is required where every aspect of the invention must be described. The patent office reviews the application making sure it complies with patent laws.

Patent License

If a patent application is granted by the United States Patent Office, a patent license is granted and certain yearly renewal fees are required. If the application is not in compliance with patent laws, the office notifies the applicant and they may amend their application.

Who May Apply?

Many countries outside the United States allow both companies and individuals to apply for a patent. In the United States only inventors can apply for a patent, but rights to the patent may be assigned to a company.

Suggestions

If you are seeking a patent, it is smart to consult with a patent attorney. Applications for patents are complicated, detailed and typically require consultation by a patent expert.

Source:

World Intellectual Property Organization

Insurance IP Bulletin

Resource:

UK Intellectual Property Office