There are many different websites that are available to those interested in getting a patent or a trademark. Even before consulting with an attorney spending some time familiarizing yourself with the basics is important.

Typically, even with an attorney, the timeline to complete the patent process is approximately a year and a half. During this time the Patent Office may request additional information, require changes or modifications or even refuse your application.

If you've invented something or are considering applying for a trademark or patent, you can do most of the work yourself; however, the details should always be taken care of by a patent attorney. No one knows patent trademark law better than they do.