Utility Patent Attorneys in Miami

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A utility patent protects the functional aspects of your invention — how it works, how it is used, or how it is made. It is the most common type of patent, covering machines, processes, compositions of matter, and manufactured articles. Protection lasts 20 years from the filing date. At Sanchelima & Associates, P.A., we have been drafting and prosecuting utility patents since 1977.

Utility Patent Services We Provide

  • Utility patent application drafting and filing
  • Prior art search and freedom-to-operate analysis
  • USPTO office action responses
  • Patent prosecution through allowance
  • Continuation and continuation-in-part applications
  • Licensing and assignment agreements

Why Choose Sanchelima & Associates, P.A.

Intellectual property matters demand specialized legal expertise. For nearly 50 years, Sanchelima & Associates, P.A. has helped businesses, entrepreneurs, and innovators protect their trademarks, patents, and copyrights while providing experienced representation in intellectual property disputes.

Our boutique approach ensures every client receives personalized attention backed by deep technical and legal knowledge.

What sets us apart:

  • Top quality work
  • Superior client satisfaction
  • In-depth engineering experience
  • State-of-the-art resources
  • Competitive rates
  • Everyone in our staff speaks English and Spanish

Whether you need to protect your intellectual property, register a trademark or patent, or resolve an IP dispute, our experienced attorneys are ready to provide trusted guidance every step of the way.

Our office is fully equipped with advanced IT and conference facilities. Speak with our Miami patent or trademark attorneys for expert guidance. We use a computerized docketing system to ensure all filings and deadlines with the USPTO are met promptly

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What does a utility patent protect?

    The functional aspects of an invention: how something works, how it is used, or how it is made. This includes machines, processes, methods of manufacture, and compositions of matter — but not ornamental appearance, which is covered by a design patent.

  • How long does a utility patent last?

    20 years from the earliest non-provisional filing date, provided maintenance fees are paid at 3.5, 7.5, and 11.5 years. Failure to pay maintenance fees results in the patent expiring early.

  • What is the difference between a utility patent and a design patent?

    A utility patent protects how an invention functions; a design patent protects how it looks. Some products can qualify for both. A phone with a unique shape, for example, could have a utility patent for its technology and a design patent for its form.

  • How long does the utility patent process take?

    Typically 2 to 3 years from filing to grant at the USPTO, depending on the technology area. Expedited examination (Track One) is available for an additional fee and can reduce this to under 12 months.

Ready to Discuss Your Legal Matter?

Speak with our bilingual legal team about intellectual property, franchise, or commercial litigation needs.

Bilingual Legal Counsel

Serving Businesses and Innovators Since 1977

Call (305) 447-1617