DIY vs. Pro: The High Stakes of Navigating Patents and Trademarks Alone

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Inherently Distinctive, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with attorney Mark Goodman to explore the risks and challenges of handling patents and trademarks without professional help. They discuss common mistakes entrepreneurs and business owners make when attempting to file on their own, including missing critical deadlines, filing incorrect ownership details, and underestimating the complexity of intellectual property law. Mark shares real-world examples of how DIY filings can lead to costly legal battles and loss of rights. Tune in to learn why investing in a professional from the start can save time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Introduction to Own Your Genius with Mark Goodman
• 00:05 – Overview of today's topic: DIY patent and trademark filings vs. hiring a lawyer
• 00:46 – Why do so many entrepreneurs attempt to file patents and trademarks on their own?
• 01:53 – The risks of DIY patent filings: Losing rights due to missed deadlines
• 02:50 – The one-year rule for U.S. patents and how other countries have stricter deadlines
• 06:04 – Common trademark filing mistakes, including incorrect ownership and improper specimens
• 07:42 – Why patent writing is complex and requires legal expertise
• 09:41 – The long-term financial risks of handling intellectual property alone
• 11:02 – How deadlines and administrative requirements can trip up DIY filers
• 12:59 – The cost of fixing mistakes vs. doing it right the first time
• 14:27 – Final thoughts: Let the professionals handle intellectual property matters

About the Show:

Inherently Distinctive is a podcast hosted by attorney Mark Goodman, focusing on intellectual property law, business law, and innovation. Mark breaks down complex legal topics into actionable insights for entrepreneurs, inventors, and business owners looking to protect their ideas.