A prior art search is a search that is usually performed prior to beginning the patent application process. When performing a prior art search, we look for patents and published patent applications that are relevant to the patentability of your invention. In most cases, we recommend a prior art search so that you have a better understanding of what is out there. In some circumstances, although an invention has been patented, it has never been on the market and is unknown to the inventor. In such circumstances, discovering the invention through a prior art search has saved our clients the expense of going through the patent process only to find that the invention already exists. In other cases, identifying the prior art has aided the inventor in securing a strong patent. Please contact us today to discuss whether or not a prior art search is recommended for you.