What is the process to get my patent application filed and examined?

The process typically begins with a patentability search to check whether your invention is genuinely novel compared to existing publicly known technology (called "prior art"), followed by drafting and filing a patent application with a detailed specification describing the invention and its claims.

After filing, you (or your patent agent) need to specifically request examination within a specified period, after which a patent examiner reviews the application and typically issues objections or queries that need to be responded to — this back-and-forth process can take a considerable amount of time before a patent is either granted or the application is refused.

Once granted, the patent is protected for 20 years from the filing date, subject to paying periodic renewal fees to keep it in force. Given how technical and detail-sensitive patent drafting and prosecution is — a poorly drafted application can significantly weaken your eventual protection — it's strongly advisable to engage a qualified patent agent or attorney to handle this process for you rather than attempting it without professional help.