Since 1952, Kolisch Hartwell’s core business has been helping our clients obtain and protect patent rights in the U.S. and abroad. Our team of patent attorneys and agents has broad experience in drafting, prosecuting, and enforcing patents in a very wide range of arts and technologies. We know patents inside-out. Our patent services include:
- Patent Drafting and Prosecution. Kolisch Hartwell attorneys have prepared thousands of patents over the last 50+ years. We know how to write a patent application that protects your broadest interests, and we know how to efficiently advance your application through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (and foreign patent offices) from examination to issuance and beyond.
- Patentability Search. If you’re considering seeking a patent, consider having Kolisch Hartwell search for preexisting patents and other public disclosures (called prior art) before drafting an application. Sometimes we find very little prior art close to your idea and can write a broader application on your behalf. Usually we do find related art, but we can use our knowledge of it to draft an application and claims that are aimed at open territory. And sometimes we find something out there that’s a dead ringer for your idea. That can be hard news, but it’s best to find out before going to the expense of preparing and filing an application.
- State-of-the-Art Search. We can review and analyze patents and other literature to identify industry trends, competitive advantages, and competitor disclosures. Businesses rely on Kolisch Hartwell for this kind of research for several reasons. Sometimes, the goal is to evaluate a market to decide whether to enter it; or to review a technology looking for entry points; or to calibrate your radar for your competition. No matter—we’re adept at investigating technology and evaluating the results.
- Clearance Search. Also known as a “right-to-manufacture search,” one goal of a clearance search is to evaluate your idea or design against enforceable patents. The general goal, however, is to reduce your risk of being sued for infringement. If we do find patents that are too close for comfort, our attorneys can often help you design around them, reducing the uncertainties that surround the introduction of a new product.
- Patent Portfolio Analysis. Businesses that create or acquire patents often end up with a collection of intellectual property assets. Over time, it can be hard to know which patents have the most or least value. Portfolio analysis is an inventory of an IP library. Questions addressed might include: What is the scope and strength of each patent? What is the combined extent of coverage? Where are the gaps? Are proper assignments, licenses, or contracts in place? Is a system set up to maintain them? What obligations exist, and who is responsible for making sure they are fulfilled? What’s the best strategy for the future?
- Licensing. Kolisch Hartwell facilitates agreements between patent owners and those who seek to use the patented technology. If you hold a patent, you might want to derive income from it; or maybe you have your eye on a patented feature and want to negotiate for rights.
- Litigation. Having a patent sometimes means you have to enforce it. If someone knocks off your patented invention, Kolisch Hartwell can help put a stop to it. Or maybe the shoe is on the other foot, and you have received an unexpected cease-and-desist letter. Either way, we are well prepared to represent your best interests in disputes over patent rights.