I thought I had come up with a wonderful idea that I had never seen in the Market Place so I did some research on how to get a Patent. I'm from Canada and from what I was reading, it seemed to make more sense to get in touch with an American Co. As I was led to believe they would have access to a much bigger world market. This all started around Aug/o5.
I got in touch with the Patent and Trademark Institute of America and eventually was conned into sending them a cheque for $961.00 to get started on this process. After I sent that money, I had to fill out a bunch of forms in order to receive a Licensing Agreement. I mailed back the signed documents for that to The United Licensing Corporation In Garden City New York.
After much discussion with various people, I was told I needed to pick out a Patent Pkg. And I had several options for varying amts. Of money from $1990.00 to $17,995.00. I also had the option of combining all 3 plans for $49.000.00 which would assure me of a faster positive result. I ended up applying for a "Provisional Patent" I chose one of the cheapest pkgs. Which was supposed to give me Patent Pending staus. This cost me $14,136.59. It cost me $36.97 to send by UPS. I sent this on Dec. 23/05.
Once that was received, I was assured I would be hearing from representatves who would be attending Trade Shows all over the world and there would most definitely be interest in my invention. I was told that a manufacturer could possibly even buy my idea for thousands of dollars or go into a partnership, of sorts, with me to market and manufacture my idea. I did get a few letters from so-called interested parties from Trade Shows as far away as France. I had to send them some forms to fill out stating they wouldn't steal my idea if I divulged it to them. I never heard anything back from any of them.
I tried to get out of our agreement Apr. 20/06 as I was very unsatisfied with this whole process. They weren't doing anything for me and seldom returned my phonecalls. I was informed that I needed to inform them in writing of my wish for a refund but in the end I was told it was not possible. They would, however, give me a Utility Patent free of charge.
I haven't heard anything from them for months and when I tried to call, I got the voice message about the Co. Being in contempt of court etc.
I could ill afford to lose that much money. How foolish I feel now!
Lb
Sebringville, Ontario
Canada
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