OT/Has someone ever applied for a patent? Options

[computers4kids]

I have this widget that I've built 30 of so far that I believe has true marketing potential. Sorry, it won't bolt on a 914. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) The idea is novel, unique and inexpensive to make, but has a worldwide audience. Anyway, I was toying with the idea of mass producing several thousand for a first run but if this takes off like I think it might--some big company is going to replicate it.



The patent process?
Any idea how difficult it is to get one....costs? From what I've read you can do it yourself or hire a patent attorney.

Any feedback would be appreciated.
Thanks, Mark

[DBCooper]

That's excellent advice, those guys are the patent equivalent of ambulance chasers.

Yes, you can now search even the applications! Google Patent is the best, http://www.google.com/patents . I probably shouldn't say "best", it's just my favorite. Doesn't replace a patent search but it can sort things out for you before you hire the search.

Be careful saying it's "patent pending" if it isn't. That's a legal statement saying you've applied, the patent application has been accepted, examined, and approved. Unless all that's true you're better saying "patent applied for" which accomplishes all you probably want in waving people off without the legal ramifications.