If you think you're ready to file a patent application online, make sure you do your research. Find a trusted source and study up. Do you know whether a provisional application is right for you instead of a utiltiy application? Are the people you hired going to review anything for you? Is it really a design patent that you need?
Sites like www.patentufo.com have a ton of useful infomation for you to grind through. Make sure you flesh out your invention by understanding the patent process.
The following is an excerpt from Patent UFO FAQ:
Does having a patent mean I can sell my Invention?
Not always. This is a common misconception. Remember, a patent is a right to exclude others from making, using or selling your patented invention within the U.S. This, of course, in and of itself can be very powerful.
However, your patent does not necessarily mean you have the right to make, use or sell it yourself. In fact, someone else may have what is called a dominant patent which in effect will stop you from making, using, or selling your invention in some form.
The first step is to perform a patent search to determine where your invention stands with what exists out there.
How long do patents last?
Utility Patents and Plant Patents are in effect starting from the date the patent is issued by the USPTO and ending, at the latest, 20 years after the date of filing of the earliest non-provisional application. Design Patents are valid for a period of 14 years from the date of issue.
There are maintenance fees to be paid to the USPTO during the life of a Utility Patent which must be paid to prevent the patent from expiring earlier than the maximum 20-year term. Once your patent expires, your patented invention may be freely made, used, and sold by anyone. There are no maintenance fees due with Design and Plant Patents.
It's easier than it seems once you find a source to guide you through it. Get more useful info if you think you're ready to file your patent application online.
If you think you aren't ready to file your patent application then you should read this article on what you can do if you don't think you're ready to file a patent application.
