Provisional Patent Application Services
Protect Your Idea Early with a Provisional Patent
This is often the smartest first step for startups, entrepreneurs, and innovators who want protection now, without the cost or complexity of a full patent application.
Learn more about:
What Is a Provisional Patent Application?
Why Most Provisional Patents Fail?
Our Approach to Provisional Patent Applications
Provisional Patent vs Non-Provisional Patent
FAQ
What Is a Provisional Patent Application?
A provisional patent application is a temporary filing with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) that establishes a priority date for your invention. This will:
- Secure your “patent pending” status
- Give you 12 months to further develop your invention
- Allow time to assess market fit, funding, or commercialization
- Cost less than a non-provisional patent application
However, a provisional patent is only valuable if it’s done correctly and strategically.
Download my Provisional Patent Readiness Checklist
A free resource for startup founders who want to
protect their innovation without wasting time or money.
Why Most Provisional Patents Fail
Many inventors file provisional patents that:
- Are too vague or incomplete
- Don’t properly describe the invention
- Fail to support future patent claims
- Are impossible to convert into a strong non-provisional patent
At Lockhart IP, we don’t believe in “quick and cheap” filings that create a false sense of security. We focus on provisional patents that actually protect you.
Our Approach to Provisional Patent Applications
We treat provisional patents as the foundation of your IP strategy, not a placeholder.
When you work with Lockhart IP, we:
- Evaluate whether a provisional patent is the right move
- Help define what aspects of your invention should be protected now
- Draft a detailed, well-structured application
- Align the provisional filing with your long-term patent goals
- Explain everything clearly, without legal jargon
Our goal is to give you real protection and flexibility, not paperwork that looks good but fails when it matters.
Provisional Patent vs. Non-Provisional Patent
A provisional patent application:
- Is temporary (12 months)
- Is not examined by the USPTO
- Establishes an early filing date
- Costs less upfront
A non-provisional patent application:
- Is examined by the USPTO
- Can result in an issued patent
- Requires more detail and formal claims
We help you decide when a provisional patent makes sense, and when it doesn’t.
What You Get When You Work with Lockhart IP
- Clear guidance on whether a provisional patent is right for you
- A professionally prepared application aligned with your goals
- Strategic advice on next steps and timelines
- Transparent communication and realistic expectations
We work with you as a partner, not just a filing service.
Get in touch
Start Protecting Your Innovation
If you’re building something new and want to protect it the right way, a provisional patent application may be your first step.
Schedule a strategy consultation to discuss your invention and determine the right path forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How long does a provisional patent last?
A provisional patent application lasts 12 months from the filing date. During that time, you can claim “patent pending” and must file a non-provisional patent application to continue protection.
Can I sell my product with a provisional patent?
Yes. You can sell and market your product while your provisional patent is active. However, filing early helps protect your idea before it’s widely exposed.
Can I file a provisional patent myself?
Yes, but many DIY filings lack the detail needed for strong protection. A well-prepared application can make a significant difference when you later file a non-provisional patent.
Do provisional patents get examined?
No. Provisional patent applications are not examined by the USPTO. They serve as a placeholder to secure an early filing date while you prepare a full patent application.
For more detailed questions, visit our Patent Search, Provisional Patent Application, or Non-Provisional Patent Application pages. Read all FAQ here.
Our Services
You Create,
We Protect
Lockhart IP provides legal counsel to entrepreneurs and creatives looking to build strong brands and protect their ideas and creative works.
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