Biotechnology · Freedom to operate and patent in
Since we are the biotech startup with limited cash & all our 25 diversed team is working for the shares, we thought that can unite with likeminded professionals from IP field
Never. Ever. Going to. Happen.
Patents are not only easily several if not tens of thousands of dollars in filing fees alone, but they have the ongoing requirement to aggressively protect and defend your patent, which in itself might be more tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars every single year. There is no guarantee in filing that your patent will be allowed. And if not allowed, your attorney would be left with no asset.
You do not need an attorney to file a patent application. Having one, or at least a patent agent, can improve your application. But you can file on your own, with reduced fees, for small entities, and some help from the PTO itself.
My advice, and it's not legal advice, is to hire an agent or attorney to give you official advice on your patent idea. Don't discuss it with anyone outside of an official capacity.