How can we protect ourselves from our competitor's patent applications ?

There are two fronts you want to operate on: 1) Invalidate any patents the competitor might file. No one can file a patent application more...

I' m pursuing a patent on a reflective coating, is the patent done in just my name? financial backer have his name on as well?

When you say "wants his name on the patent" you should distinguish between patent inventorship and patent ownership. If the inventors listed on a...

I need to find a new patent attorney. I've had 3 rejections in 3 years for a very simple device.

I agree with Sadiq and haven't heard anything yet that makes me think your attorney is doing a bad job. The patent process is very complex and...

What are my options?

Sometimes business solutions are better than legal solutions. Have you tried to contact this person to see what he is willing to tell you? ...

Are my improvements to an already patented invention enough to spend the time, effort and money?

You asked about the value of spending the time effort and money. The other answers do a good job covering the technical aspects, so I want to add...

I have an invention and I now need a patent attorney....

There are three phases to a patent application that I typically recommend that inventors plan for: 1) filing, 2) prosecution, and 3) post-issuance....

It sounds like you have already found the file history at the Patent Office. If not, go to http://portal.uspto.gov/external/portal/pair and use...

I've made a modification to device that will increase its longevity. How can I patent that?

Almost all inventions are improvements of some kind over existing technology. Whether something is patentable depends on several hurdles,...

If a patent number cannot be found on the USPTO website itself, is it expired?

The only thing I would add over the previous answers is that since we are both in Seattle, if you contact me I would be happy to help you look this...

Patents last 20 years from the date of filing. However, a patent on a base concept will not prevent you from applying for a patent on improvements...