What is a patent and what protection does it provide?

A patent is a property right that allows an inventor to exclude others from practicing the patented invention. An issued patent gives the patent owner the right to bring an infringement suit against anyone who makes, uses, offers to sell, sells, or imports the claimed invention without authorization from the patent owner.

Hovey Williams handles more U.S. and corresponding foreign patents than any other firm in the Kansas City area.

We work with our clients to obtain and maintain utility, design, and plant patents throughout the world from initial invention conception through patent expiration. In addition to regular U.S. filings, the firm handles Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), European Patent Office (EPO), and all other types of foreign patent applications.

In order to thoroughly understand each new development, our attorneys meet with clients accompanied by a patent draftsman, when necessary. Because of our experience and skilled support staff, we can prepare applications on an emergency basis, if necessary.

Hovey Williams offers a complete array of patent-related services, both U.S. and foreign, including:

• Searches in the appropriate patent office to determine the patentability of our clients’ inventions
• Literature searches at the world-renowned Linda Hall Library of Science, Engineering and Technology in Kansas City
• Manufacturers’ clearance searches to locate any potential infringement problems that our clients may encounter in connection with new products and services
• Litigation-related services to determine the validity and infringement of patents