What is the likelihood of a patent getting refused for a similar idea but with more features?

The real question is whether your added features are themselves non-obvious relative to what came before (called the "prior art") or non-obvious in...

I have a design for a piece of jewelry and do not know where to start.And what kind of Attorney to speak to If I needed.Thanks!

From an IP perspective, you should talk with an attorney who has experience with design patents as well as copyright and trademarks. They can help...

If I don't claim the benefit of my Provisional Patent Application, will it affect my Non-Provisional Patent application?

The short answer is no to your first part. The non-provisional is not required to reference the earlier provisional. BUT, it will be as if the...

How can I add one more claim to the list of claims of a non-provisional patent application filed a few days ago?

You can add an additional claim by filing a preliminary amendment. If the claim is an independent claim and causes the application to have more...

Do you think the USPTO will shutdown in a few weeks due to a government shutdown? (Patent, IP question)

Due to its funding structure, the Patent Office supposedly has about 3 more weeks of funds left, not counting incoming funds. If the shutdown is...

What you found is a trademark for Europa, which would only protect the name, not the shape of a car. In addition, even if you found a patent, it...

Are there any attorneys on AVVO that would be willing to do a free initial consultation on a trademark issue?

We can do so provided we do not have a conflict. Feel free to contact me via direct e-mail or phone if you like and we can do a conflict check and...

Is there a software program that you use to help you write patent applications?

There are some programs that can help with formatting, paragraph numbering and maintaining proper claim numbering if claims are moved around, but...

The PTO will generally not send notices until the grace period has begun. Any notices will be sent to the attorney of record. Note that...

Does the patent office call up an engineer to try to construct the invention using the elements listed?

In addition to attorney Malek's response, since the Patent Office has engineers and scientists covering all disciplines for which a patent can be...