What are Patent Searchers?
“Patent searchers” are individuals who search for
granted patents and published patent applications. A patent searcher
typically will not search for non-patent related items such as but not
limited to technical articles or commercial products. Many patent law
firms hire independent contractor patent searchers or employee patent
searchers to perform patent searches for their clients.
Patent Searcher Qualifications
There are no specific requirements or licensing to become a patent
searcher. However, a patent searcher must be able to (1) understand
the technical subject matter of your invention, (2) the inventive features
of your invention and (3) search and efficiently review granted patents and
published applications. In addition, the patent searcher should have a
good understanding of patent law and particularly the laws relating to the
patentability of an invention.
How to Hire a Patent Searcher
There are many patent searchers who perform very good services.
When hiring a patent searcher, it is prudent to inquire as to whether or not
the patent search understands the technical subject matter of your invention
along with the inventive features of the same. Keep in mind that it is
not realistic to expect your patent searcher to be an “expert” in the field
of your technology.
If you would like more information about our patent search
services, contact us at 1-701-281-8822 to speak with a
registered patent practitioner.