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Question: Many years ago I thought of an invention that I believe would sell like crazy. I can not manufacture the product myself nor would I want to. There are already some very big companies that basically have a monopoly on a product similar to mine and it would be very easy for them to change their existing products to “my idea” (which when changed creates a whole new product which is used for a completely different purpose than their existing product). I know that probably sounds very confusing but without telling you what my idea is it’s very hard to explain. My question is this. I can’t afford to patent my invention. Is there a way that I can approach one of these big companies and tell them my idea and still be protected so that if they market my product I will be guaranteed compensation? I realize that non-disclosures exist but I’m not sure just how binding they are or if there are ways that they could get around honoring them.

Answer: Non-disclosure agreements are binding and when they are properly written are difficult to get around. Your situation sounds confusing and I strongly suggest you discuss your questions with a registered patent attorney.

This is just a general summary and it would be best if you discussed the issue with a registered patent attorney. Please be advised that I do not know the details of any particular situation you may have, and am just discussing the general state of the law.

Nothing in this response is meant as legal advice and should not be taken as such and no legal opinions or advice have been expressed. Unless otherwise noted, no attorney-client relationship exists between any attorney at the Law Office of Steven B. Leavitt and any reader of this information. If you have legal questions specific to your individual needs, then you should consult with an attorney or other qualified legal professional.