Patents
BY Christopher Hann
You are ready to introduce your invention to the world, but first you should consider whether your new product requires a patent to help make it commercially viable. How to Protect Your Business Idea Without a Patent
BY Stephen Key
You don't have to fork over thousands of dollars in legal fees to safeguard your business idea with a patent. Here are some affordable easy steps to help ensure you're protecting your ideas from theft. Why Filing a Patent Just Got More Complicated For Startups (Opinion)
BY Scott Shane
The America Invents Act, which went into effect March 16, has changed the process for patenting. These developments might not help entrepreneurs after all. Here's why. The Rising Threat of Patent Trolls and What You Can Do to Protect Your Startup
BY Andrea Huspeni
Tim Sparapani of Application Developers Alliance provides insight into the world of patent trolls. Quirky and GE Team Up to Make Inventing Easier
BY Diana Ransom
The two companies announced a new partnership that'll give citizen inventors access to a portion of GE's patent coffers, as well as a co-branded effort that could effectively appify your home. Obama Takes Aim at 'Patent Trolls'
BY Catherine Clifford
Combating patent-law abuse was among the subjects the President talked about in a Google Hangout following up his State of the Union address. How to Defend Your Designs Against Knockoffs
BY Caroline Tiger
There are many ways to fight copycats--and they may even lead to opportunities.Play Video Why Patents Won't Protect You (Video)
Brian Cohen, an early investor in Pinterest, says entrepreneurs should get over their fears of being ripped off. What the Apple vs. Samsung Lawsuit Means for the Future of Smartphone Design
BY Amy Gahran
Samsung was ordered to pay Apple $1 billion for infringing on its patents. Will this change the way other mobile devices are made?Play Video How to Deal With Copycats (Video)
BY Colleen DeBaise
If you're first to market, it's not unusual for others to rip off your product. Hear entrepreneur Michael Aiello's story, plus tips from Pinterest investor Brian Cohen on handling knock-offs. What Your Business Can Learn From Apple's Battle with Samsung
BY Mikal E. Belicove
If you think a competitor copied your patented products or services, here are some ways to stand in the way of their efforts. How to Navigate the New Patent Law
BY Diana Ransom
The age-old patent system is set to be reformed. Here's how the new law might change how or whether you get a patent. Some Jobs Act Proposals Make Headway
BY Diana Ransom
Even as Congress considers which if any of the President's jobs measures to pass, some of his proposals are already gaining traction. Register, Protect and Defend
BY Barbara Findlay Schenck
How to stake and protect your claim when it comes to intellectual property.Don't File for That Patent Yet
BY Tamara Monosoff
Instead of a utility patent, a provisional patent or a trademark could be a better first step.The Future Is...Later
BY David Port
A backlog of applications at the U.S. Patent Office has innovation in a stranglehold. How to Search for Existing Patents
BY Jeffrey Steinberger
Before you spend a lot of time an energy creating the next big thing, use a patent search to make sure it hasn't already been done. 
