I'm considering a move from an Amlaw 100 to a boutique. I expected a pay cut but the minimum hours are only a bit lower. What to make of this? What is an hour at biglaw compared with an hour at a boutique? Is working at a boutique that much better in terms of QOL (or something else) despite the comparable number of minimum hours?
Another guy had a patent for it. Was a long time ago. For all I know he passed away.
He never renewed it.
I sent the last address a letter. It came back.
I found the patent online. Found the drawing.
Very rough. But it was accepted by patent office.
I having trouble finding it. Misplaced it. Probably in my truck. Will turn up.
But I was having trouble finding someone to make it. Having trouble finding someone to put in CAD file. If I file now then when I get time I can work on it.
As far as the lawyers. Online there are lawyers that will guide you. Should I just do that.
Or just use the other guys patent papers.
Not trying to steal it. Not hiding it.
Patent expired decades ago.
-Can I file a patent without the item. With just the drawing?
-Should I just file it myself. Without a lawyer.
Thsnk you.
I just got a patent that I am looking to sell to a big beverage company. Anyone have a connection?
Hey everyone,
I’m in the process of trademarking the name for a small business operating in the IP / technical services space and wanted to get some recommendations from people who’ve gone through the process before.
I’ve spent some time reviewing the USPTO resources and noticed they mention that self-filing is possible, but they still strongly recommend working with a U.S.-licensed trademark attorney depending on the situation. Since this is something I’d rather do correctly from the beginning, I’m leaning toward working with someone experienced instead of trying to figure everything out myself.
Does anyone here have recommendations for attorneys or smaller firms that were good to work with, especially for startups or technical businesses?
Not really looking for the large “trademark mill” type services — more interested in someone responsive and knowledgeable who can help avoid mistakes early on.
Appreciate any suggestions or experiences.
Is this step always required? How do I know if *my* patent needs it? Are certain patents more at risk, such as tech or bio, but maybe others its not as much of a race to a claim?
Looking for general process guidance on a patent matter following a co-founder separation. Not asking for legal advice, just trying to understand typical steps and what questions to bring to a patent agent.
Background: I am the primary founder of a small Ontario corporation. My co-founder voluntarily stepped down in early 2026. We have a mutual release and IP assignment agreement that she is expected to sign shortly, which assigns all her right, title, and interest in all patent applications and related filings to me.
Patent question: A patent application was filed in connection with the corporation's product while we were collaborating. Now that she has assigned all IP to me through the exit agreement, what is the correct process to update the patent record? Specifically:
— Do I need to file an assignment recordal with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office? — Is the signed IP assignment agreement sufficient documentation or does CIPO require a specific form? — Does inventorship need to be formally amended or is ownership assignment separate from inventorship on the record? — Should I engage a patent agent for this or can it be done directly with CIPO?
Any guidance on the typical process or what to bring to a patent agent would be appreciated.