What is freedom to operate?
A freedom-to-operate assessment examines whether someone else’s patent rights could restrict your ability to make, use, or sell your product. It helps you identify potential obstacles and decide how to address them.
How is this different from a patentability search?
A patentability search helps you assess whether your invention could qualify for a patent of its own. A freedom-to-operate assessment examines whether your product could infringe someone else’s patent. Depending on your plans, both may be useful.
If I get my own patent, can I sell my product?
Your own patent does not automatically give you permission to sell your product. Another patent may cover a feature your product uses, even if your invention also qualifies for protection.
What happens if you find a concerning patent?
I’ll explain which features of your product create the concern and how strong that concern appears to be. Depending on the findings, we can discuss changes to the product, permission from the patent owner, or further analysis. You’ll understand the available options and what additional work, if any, I recommend.
Does an assessment guarantee that I won’t be sued?
No. An assessment helps you understand and reduce risk, but it cannot guarantee that every relevant patent will be found or that nobody will bring a claim. My conclusions will reflect the product information and patent records reviewed as of the assessment date.
How quickly will I receive my assessment?
We agree on a delivery date for your written assessment before work begins. The clock starts once the agreed information, engagement, and payment are complete. If our delay causes us to miss that date, we refund 50% of your professional fee.
