Conducting a Freedom to Operate Search

Getting a patent is an important part of legally protecting your invention, whether that invention is a product or an idea. However, in addition to conducting a patentability search to see if your invention is patentable, it is also important to conduct a freedom to operate search, in which you find out if your proposed patent will infringe on any existing patents that are currently on the market. Any misstep in the patent process can mean that your invention never sees the market, and you never see a profit. Fortunately, the attorneys of Gagnon, Peacock & Vereeke, P.C., want to help Fort Worth inventors conduct a freedom to operate search.

Basics of Freedom to Operate Searches

A freedom to operate search performs several functions for those wishing to pursue a patent. It will:

• Review current patents
• Consider expired patents
• Consider public documents
• Extend a patent infringement search by searching other countries for patent protection

A freedom to operate search is an important part of establishing any patent in the U.S. or in participating countries around the world. Because of the complexities of this search, however, it is a good idea to work with an intellectual property lawyer in Fort Worth who can provide thorough and accurate completion of the process.

Contact an Intellectual Property Lawyer in Fort Worth

If you or someone you know needs help with patent application and protection, the Fort Worth intellectual property attorneys of Gagnon, Peacock & Vereeke, P.C., may be able to help. Contact our offices in Fort Worth today by calling (214) 824-1414, and learn more about how we can help you with the freedom to operate search and other legal aspects related to pursuing a patent.