Intellectual Property, Business, and Estate Planning

King Patent Law, PLLC

Protecting your ideas, business, and legacy

Myth: “Once I File a Provisional Application, I Don’t Need to Worry for a Year”

Filing a provisional patent application doesn’t mean you can forget about that application or the invention for 12 months. That time goes fast, and you need to use it strategically.

Here's the Truth

You should be finalizing your invention, researching competitors, and working on the non-provisional application. Waiting until month 11 often leads to rushed filings or missed opportunities. You know from previous points why rushing an application is a bad idea.

Here's What to Do

Treat that 12-month period like a countdown, not a cushion. Work consistently to move your intellectual property and your business forward.

If you’d like help with a patent, let’s talk. You can use my contact form or book a consultation online at kingpatentlaw.com or by calling my office at 312-596-2222 or 217-714-8558.

Please check out the other posts and pages on my website for more information on patents and other intellectual property and business law issues.

August 1, 2025

Julie King

Julie is a licensed patent attorney and the founding attorney at King Patent Law, PLLC, with over 25 years of legal experience. Her practice focuses on intellectual property, business, and estate planning, and she's passionate about helping clients use IP tools to protect and grow their businesses. When she's not helping clients, you can find her at a live rock show, watching a horror movie, or playing the guitar (badly).

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This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult with a licensed attorney.

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