What type of protection do I need to secure my idea or invention?
To protect your idea or invention, you should consider applying for a patent. A patent is a legal monopoly granted by the government that gives an inventor the exclusive right to make, use, and sell their invention for a certain period of time. In the United States, the federal agency responsible for granting patents is the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
Generally, in order to obtain a patent, your invention must be new, useful, and non-obvious. This means that it cannot be something that has already been invented, it must serve some practical purpose, and it must not be an idea that someone else would have easily come up with.
While a patent can provide powerful protection for your invention, there are some limitations and exceptions to keep in mind. For example, a patent does not provide protection against independent inventors who come up with a similar invention on their own. Additionally, if someone is already selling a product that is similar to your invention before you apply for a patent, you may not be able to prevent them from continuing to do so.
If you are considering applying for a patent, it is important to consult with a licensed attorney who specializes in patent law. They can help guide you through the complex process of obtaining a patent and advise you on the best course of action based on your specific situation.