Managing the lifecycle of a patent, from the initial filing of a PCT application to maintaining its validity for 20 years or more, can be complex and resource-intensive. IP-Coster simplifies this process, offering a centralized platform to handle every stage of patent prosecution and protection efficiently. With our support, clients can focus on innovation while we manage the details.
The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) enables applicants to file a single patent application, which can then enter national or regional phases to seek protection in up to 158 countries and regions. However, the PCT does not provides a single “international patent”. Instead, it streamlines the process of obtaining separate national or regional patents.
Filing traditional PCT application involves several steps: preparing documents, obtaining necessary signatures, and submitting physical copies to a receiving office. This process can be time-consuming, especially when coordinating with legal representatives and handling extensive paperwork.
Simplifying PCT Filing with IP-Coster
IP-Coster’s platform eliminates these hurdles by offering a centralized, user-friendly solution. Our experienced attorneys handle the entire PCT application process online, ensuring timely submission to any of the 89 available receiving offices. We manage all communication digitally, eliminating the need for physical paperwork and reducing administrative overhead.
Entering National or Regional Phases
Under the PCT agreement, applicants must transition their applications into the national or regional phases to seek patent protection in specific jurisdictions. This step typically occurs within 30 or 31 months from the earliest priority date, depending on the regulations of each country or region.
Navigating this phase requires tailored strategies for each jurisdiction. At IP-Coster, our team helps clients select the best options for their needs, ensuring a smooth transition and increasing the likelihood of successful patent grants.
Managing Independent Prosecution in Each Jurisdiction
During national or regional phases, patent prosecution proceeds independently in each chosen jurisdiction. IP-Coster partners with a global network of trusted agents to provide professional and reliable representation for our clients, ensuring compliance with local legal and procedural requirements.
Our platform allows clients to manage their intellectual property seamlessly across multiple jurisdictions, all within the same intuitive interface they used to begin their patent journey. From filing to grant, IP-Coster supports clients every step of the way.
Maintaining Patent Validity
Once patents are granted, maintaining their validity requires the timely payment of annuities in each jurisdiction. This ongoing obligation is essential to ensure that the rights conferred by the patent remain secure.
Through IP-Coster, clients can manage annuity payments efficiently, reducing administrative complexity and minimizing the risk of missed deadlines. This ensures patents remain secure while clients focus on leveraging their intellectual property.
Extending Patent Terms
In certain industries, such as pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, patents may be eligible for term extensions to compensate for time lost during regulatory approval processes. These extensions can add up to five years to the standard 20-year patent term, depending on specific criteria and jurisdictional regulations. Each case requires a thorough assessment to determine eligibility for such extensions.
At IP-Coster, our experienced professionals are ready to evaluate your unique situation and guide you through the process of securing potential patent term extensions, ensuring that your intellectual property enjoys the maximum protection available.