How software patents are different

Hi, I'm John Rizvi, the patent professor. The patenting of software is an unusual field because the inventions coming from the software industry are often more complex than tangible inventions like mechanical or electrical systems. Unlike the typical widget, which requires relatively straightforward descriptions, and drawings, the intricacies of software inventions require careful precise claims and descriptions. Relatively few attorneys specialize in patent law. And out of these far fewer are acquainted with the unique requirements of a software patent. In the early days of software patents, attorneys eager to cash in on the sudden trends being set in the software industry didn't properly understand the requirements for software patents. Even worse, the patent office didn't recognize a computer science degree as a qualifying discipline for patent attorneys. This created a perfect storm, which resulted in worthless patents being filed with disastrous consequences. One common mistake was mixing client and process steps in a single claim. This is a problem because it means no single entity can infringe on the claim, which is a key point in patent prosecution and enforcement. Frequently, this meant clients paid out a lot of money for patents that were completely unenforceable and left the clients innovation vulnerable to hostile interest and a lot of otherwise very qualified attorneys with egg on their faces. It also made people question whether software was actually worth patenting at all. 30 years later, some of the bugs in the software patenting system have been worked out, but it still comes down to the skill and knowledge of the patent attorney. When you are ready to patent your software. You don't just want any attorney. I'm John Rizvi, the patent professor, and I have a lot of experience in software patents. I've helped over 1200 inventors protect their ideas and I can help you to let me show you how to do a software patent application that will help you and your invention get the respect and protection you deserve.