When it comes to filing a patent application, timing is everything. The optimal time to file a patent application is as soon as possible, and there are several reasons why.

Getting the Legal Right to Your Invention Before Anyone Else

First, the inventor has a better chance of securing patent protection if the application is filed as soon as possible. It is more likely that a patent application will be granted if the inventor is given sufficient time to prepare and improve it. Further, the earlier the filing date, the earlier the priority date, which can be crucial if a competitor submits a similar patent application at a later date.

Keeping from Falling Behind Schedule

Second, it's best to get your patent application in early to avoid having to pay extra to avoid delays. Inventors who procrastinate on filing their patent applications run the risk of having their applications delayed or even rejected because they missed crucial deadlines they were unaware of.

A Patent Application Is a Marketable Asset

Finally, the earlier a patent application is filed, the more time the creator has to start selling or licensing their innovation. An inventor has more time to discover potential licensees and negotiate favorable conditions if the patent application is filed as soon as possible after the invention's conception.

If you want to get your hands on a patent, you should do so as quickly as feasible. The sooner a patent application is filed, the sooner an innovation can be brought to market or licensed. This increases the inventor's chances of a successful outcome and reduces the likelihood of costly delays.

Schell IP's is a Denver patent law firm. Its mission is to leverage artificial intelligence in all aspects of the patenting process to create more valuable intellectual property assets.

If you would like to discuss a specific product concept requiring patent protection or speak with a patent lawyer, feel free to contact the Schell IP team.