Depending on circumstance, a prospective applicant may want a prior art search, which involves a search of what has been previously done (e.g., patents, patent applications, scholarly literature, for-sale items) in the field of the invention. This is done before the filing of the patent application. If you are interested in a prior art search, depending on circumstance, a completed prior art search can be ready relatively quickly. You will receive a spreadsheet with a breakdown of what was found that is the same or similar to your invention, along with dates and a brief description. Printed copies of the items can also be provided.
*Copyright © 2026 The Law Office of Joel W. Sawyer, PLLC - All Rights Reserved. LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This website is attorney advertising. Viewing this website or contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. A scheduled consultation creates only a limited consultation relationship for the purpose of that meeting and does not create ongoing representation unless a separate written engagement agreement is accepted by both the client and the firm. Attorney Joel Sawyer is a licensed patent attorney with the USPTO and licensed to practice by the North Carolina State Bar; cannot give legal advice for other state jurisdictions.