getting a patent

[superrjack]

So I have a couple ideas that I believe are worth patenting. How would I go about doing this. Are there any websites or lawyers one would reccomend? Also how much is this going to run me to patent one item? These items are of an electronic nature.

[nado]

If I were you I wouldn't bother with a patent.

Although I don't have much experience in the area, I've been told over and over again that patents are worthless (this is in Australia).

The reason being that they cost a hell of a lot of money and once you have the patent for your idea, there is very little to stop someone from copying it anyway. All they would need to do is change a few minor details and sell the service/product under a different name... they'd be in the green.

Also if someone did blatantly copy your idea exactly, you need the money behind you to be able to take that person/company to court... which is extremely expensive.

What I would do is get a beta out, get the idea out before anyone else and market it like crazy... if you offer the best product/service at a good price with good customer service then there is very little that a competitor can do to knock you off the ladder.

cheers
nathan