Copyrights, Patents & Trademarks

Each year, nearly one million applicants—writers, inventors, artists, designers, performers, business people, and many others—file with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the Copyright Office. Unfortunately, most believe that time-consuming research and expensive legal assistance are a necessary part of the process. If you have or expect to have an idea, product, invention, or other work that needs protection, Copyrights, Patents and Trademarks is your solution to the headaches usually associated with securing intellectual property.

This practical how-to guide takes the complexity out of filing for copyrights, patents, and trademarks, helping you file your own applications without an attorney. Hoyt Barber offers detailed explanations of international regulations and procedures, ready-to-use copies of necessary forms and applications, and a complete listing of important addresses.

The entire process of applying for a patent is examined, including how to keep an invention record, search for conflicting patents, work with agents, and appeal rejected applications. You'll even learn how to design, register, and legally protect your own trademark.

Throughout, you'll find solid advice and precautions to take at each step along the way that will keep the application moving smoothly and ensure the success of your creative ventures.