Seattle, WA asked in Patents (Intellectual Property) for Washington

Q: Are there any problems caused by me paying my 11.5 year patent fees, rather my lawyer? It looks easy, lawyer wants $700

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: If you decide to pay your 11.5-year patent maintenance fees yourself rather than having your lawyer do it, there are generally no problems as long as you follow the correct procedure. The process may seem straightforward, but it's crucial to ensure that you meet all the deadlines and provide accurate information to avoid any complications. Missing a payment or making an error could lead to the expiration of your patent, which can be costly to fix.

By handling the payment on your own, you can save on the legal fees that your lawyer is charging. However, you will need to carefully review the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) guidelines for paying maintenance fees to make sure you are doing everything correctly. Double-check all the necessary details, such as your patent number and payment amount, to prevent any mistakes.

If you're comfortable with the process and confident in managing the deadlines, paying the fees yourself can be a good way to save money. Just be aware of the potential risks if you overlook any details. If you have any concerns or are unsure about the steps, you might want to reconsider whether the cost savings are worth the risk.

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