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Preliminary Prior Art Search

A patent is a major financial investment. Before committing thousands of dollars, a quick, strategic check for easily discoverable prior art is the smartest first step. Here is how successful inventors protect their budget:

Step 1: The Quick Check. We run a high-velocity, targeted scan of global databases to spot obvious blocking patents. This tells you immediately if drafting a Provisional Patent Application (PPA) is justified.
Step 2: The 1-Year Runway. If the path looks clear, you file the PPA. This secures your "Patent Pending" status and buys you 12 months to pitch investors and test the market.
Step 3: The Deep Dive. If the market proves your idea has legs, you can confidently invest in an exhaustive clearance search and your final Non-Provisional Patent.

Note: This Preliminary Search is a first-pass assessment for early business decisions—not an exhaustive Freedom to Operate opinion.

The Optio Advantage: If you move forward, 100% of this $495 fee is credited directly toward your PPA flat fee.

By checking this box, I declare and agree to the following:

I have read and agree to Optio’s Terms of Service and Limited Scope Representation Agreement.
I understand this $495 fee covers a highly targeted, preliminary risk-assessment to identify obvious blocking patents. It does not include the drafting or filing of any patent applications with the USPTO.
I understand that because global patent databases contain millions of records and complex classifications, a rapid search relies on targeted constraints. It cannot be completely exhaustive, is not a Freedom to Operate (FTO) opinion, and cannot guarantee a patent will be granted.
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