So you have the next big idea and want to know more about Rhode Island intellectual property law. Now what? What you need to do is determine if your "next big idea" is worth taking public and going commercial.

The field of Rhode Island intellectual property law covers such topics as: intellectual property, copyrights, e-commerce and Internet transactions, fiduciary duty, trade secret, unfair competition litigation, intellectual property litigation, licensing, patent prosecution and protection and trademarks.

To learn more about Rhode Island intellectual property law:

1. Determine if your idea falls under one of the topics discussed in paragraph 2.

2. Look to online information.

3. Speak to intellectual property attorneys RI about your idea. Be prepared to thoroughly explain your idea. Consider bringing in samples, mockups, diagrams or anything to give the consultant something to help him or her visualize what you are needing help with in the field of IP law in RI.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Know the basics before delving into IP law in RI

Start with a basic knowledge of patents before specifically targeting Rhode Island intellectual property law.

I recommend: Look at the Inventors Resources from the United States Patent and Trademark Office to help you determine if you are heading in the right direction. You can also send for free patent information through Invention Home.

Use a state specific search engine to find intellectual property lawyers Rhode Island

Skip Yahoo or Google. Use a state-specific search engine to help you in your Rhode Island intellectual property law information search.

I recommend: IntellectualPropertyLawFirms.com can help you find out about Rhode Island copyright law or Rhode Island intellectual property law. FindLaw is another online resource to find an IP attorney Rhode Island, and Justia is another source for Rhode Island intellectual property law firms.

Find Rhode Island intellectual property law information providers

Locate a professional to help you with your Rhode Island intellectual property law questions. They can help you navigate the world of trademarks and patents. It can be a costly investment to hire intellectual property lawyers Rhode Island, but in the long run, if it protects your idea from being copied, it may be worth it.

I recommend: Silva, Thomas, Martland & Offenberg, Ltd. is an available Rhode Island IP law firm. Salter & Michaelson is another RI intellectual property attorney option out of Providence. Barlow, Josephs & Holmes, Ltd. is another Rhode Island IP law firm option.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Do your own patent search before conferring with a professional on Rhode Island intellectual property law. It could save you time and money in the long run if you discover that your idea has already been documented and patented.
• •  Do market research to see if your invention would even be profitable.