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While you can file a patent or trademark on your own, working with a patent attorney in Lubbock greatly improves your chances of approval. Patent law is technical and requires precise drafting. An experienced attorney can avoid costly mistakes and help ensure your invention or mark receives the strongest protection possible.

Most patents take 18–24 months or longer to be examined by the USPTO. Timelines vary based on the technology and backlog. A patent attorney can help reduce delays and respond quickly to USPTO Office Actions to keep your application moving.

A provisional patent gives you a filing date and one year to develop your invention (like holding your spot in line), but it does not become a granted patent. A non-provisional patent begins the official examination process. Many inventors in Lubbock use a provisional first while preparing for full patent protection.

Yes. You do not need a prototype to file a patent. You only need to be able to describe your invention in enough detail for someone skilled in the field to make and use it. This means you can secure your spot in line early, even if the physical build comes later.

Trademark registration typically takes 8–12 months, depending on the USPTO’s workload and whether objections arise. Filing correctly the first time, especially with a Lubbock-based attorney familiar with local businesses, helps avoid delays.

“™” can be used for any brand or logo you claim as a trademark, even if it isn’t registered. “®” can only be used once the USPTO officially registers your trademark. Improper use of ® can lead to legal issues, so it’s important to know the difference.

Yes. A comprehensive trademark search helps you avoid filing a mark that another business—possibly even here in Texas—is already using. A proper search greatly reduces the risk of rejection or infringement disputes.

Yes. Many Lubbock businesses file separate applications for their name, logo, and sometimes even slogans. Registering both offers stronger and more flexible brand protection.

Copyright protects creative works, including writing, art, music, software, and website content. If you create original material for your business or online use, copyright gives you exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, and display that content.

Technically, your content is copyrighted upon creation, but formal registration provides stronger legal protection and allows you to pursue damages if someone copies your work. This is especially useful for digital businesses and creators in Lubbock.