What type of intellectual property protection should I pursue for my invention?
As a lawyer, I would recommend that you pursue a patent for your invention to obtain maximum intellectual property protection. A patent will give you the exclusive right to manufacture, use, and sell your invention for a certain period of time. You will need to apply for a patent with the appropriate government agency and satisfy certain requirements such as novelty, non-obviousness, and utility.
One potential limitation to consider is that obtaining a patent can be a lengthy and expensive process, and there is no guarantee that your application will be approved. Additionally, patents only protect against infringement within the jurisdiction that the patent was granted, so you may need to obtain additional patents in other countries if you plan on distributing your invention internationally.
In addition to patents, other forms of intellectual property protection that may be worth considering include trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. A trademark can protect the name, logo, or symbol associated with your invention, while a copyright can protect any written or artistic works associated with it. Trade secrets can protect confidential information such as manufacturing processes or customer lists, but reliance on trade secrets can be risky as it can be difficult to enforce if the information is leaked.
Overall, I would recommend consulting with a qualified intellectual property attorney to discuss the specific details of your invention and determine the best course of action for protecting it. An attorney can help you navigate the patent application process, evaluate other forms of protection, and provide advice on potential limitations or exceptions that may apply.