Patent law

Yes. You will, however, be able to locate companies that offer to file patent applications at much lower prices. You should review the information located at the Federal Trade Commission and the US Patent and Trademark Office that deals with these lower-priced alternatives (often referred to as "invention promotion companies"). http://www.ftc.gov/opa/1997/07/mouse.shtm http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/com/iip/complaints.htm

Most likely that is in the reasonable range. The AIPLA puts out a survey about every two years that, among other things, provides a guide on how much patent attorneys charge based on technology of the invention, complexity of invention, geographical region, attorney experience, and firm size. If you want to provide me with that information (technology of the invention, complexity of invention, geographical region, attorney experience, and firm size), I can provide you with the information provided by the AIPLA. Karen [email protected]

Reasonableness is a very subjective point. I charge $1500 for a provisional, and between $8,000 to $15,000 for a non provisional. More important than cost is that you feel comfortable with the level of practical, not legal, experience the attorney has. At the drafting stage, practical experience in your subject allows for drafting more variations, which results in more claims. Remember you get what you pay for. DISCLAIMER: This answer does not constitute legal advice, and should not be relied on. Each question is fact specific and requires a comprehensive evaluation and consideration of all the facts and documents at issue. This answer does not create an attorney-client relationship.