Getting started with your patent application

The first step in obtaining a granted patent is usually the preparation and filing of an informal or priority UK patent application. It is important that this document is accurately and professionally drafted because it defines the protection which the patent will provide.

To meet the novelty requirements for obtaining a granted patent, you must not publicly disclose your invention before the patent application is filed.

Once the application has been filed, a filing date and a patent application number will be allocated by the relevant patent authorities. You can then start to put “patent pending” or “patent applied for” on your product, packaging and any accompanying literature.

Our patent experts can prepare and file your patent applications internationally.

Overseas patent applications can take the filing date of the UK patent application if they are filed within 12 months (a process called “claiming priority”). It is also possible to file patent applications in countries other than the UK prior to or in place of filing an informal or priority UK patent application.

If you decide to proceed with the patent application process then one or more formal patent applications will need to be filed within the first 12 months. The one or more formal patent applications are then the subject of a patent search and subsequently an examination by the relevant patent authorities. Once the patent authorities of the relevant countries are convinced that the invention is patentable, they will then grant a patent.

Our patent attorneys can conduct in-house preliminary searches, as well as preparing and filing your patent applications in any country in the world. If you would like to apply for a patent, then please contact our team today to get started.

Applying for a patent

We have a tried and tested patent application process that works for our clients

We have an excellent working relationship with Bailey Walsh
Director

Director , UK healthcare company

As is often the case, we need a lot of hand-holding through the legal processes, which Bailey Walsh are more than happy to do.
Director

Director , Toy design and innovation specialists

Investors have complimented the strength of the patent work
Director

Director , Healthcare startup

Meet Our Expert Patent Attorneys

Contact Us

Discuss your idea with us

If you have any further questions or if you want to speak to a member of our team, please fill out the form and a member of our team will be in touch.