Legal Question in Intellectual Property in California

Selling my invention in distant lands

I am currently fabricating a prototype of my invention and will soon apply for a U.S. Patent. I will then explore every avenue to protect the rights to my invention internationally. I've just checked out a website that lists international manufacturers that I would certainly contact after seeking every protection for my invention.

Suppose I contact a manufacturer outside the U.S. and send them information and specifications on my invention that they then decide to use in manufacturing my invention ignoring my rights. In other words they just decide to steal my idea in spite of my legal rights. I am not rich and an sinking every available resouce into the fabrication of my invention and the outlay for the cost of a patent. I don't have the money for a legal fight is someone outside the U.S. decides to steal my idea. What is my best couse of action regarding contacting these international manufacurer.


Asked on 4/25/00, 2:57 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Andrew Thomas Thomas & Thomas LLP

Re: Selling my invention in distant lands

The law offers generic protection, but you should consider having any prospective manufacturer sign a confidentiality agreement with a number of terms, including a promise not to exploit your invention in contradiction to your ownership rights. Also, the agreement should contain choice of law and jurisdiction clauses. Feel free to call if we may be of assistance.

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Answered on 6/06/00, 12:13 am


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