Should I Pay for a Patent Search?

If you’re preparing to file a patent, one of the most important early steps is conducting a patent search. Knowing what has already been invented helps you gauge your idea’s originality, avoid infringement issues, and strengthen your patent application. But many inventors wonder: Should I pay for a patent search, or can I handle it myself? The answer depends on your goals, your technical knowledge, and how confidently you want to move forward with the patent process.

At Edison Law Group, we specialize in affordable, high-quality patent searches that give inventors real clarity—not guesswork.

Why a Professional Patent Search Matters

A patent search is more than just typing a keyword into a database. It requires reviewing existing patents, published applications, international records, and non-patent literature to determine how similar your invention is to what already exists. This information directly affects whether your idea is patentable—and how strong your eventual patent will be.

Paying for a professional search is worth it when:

  • You plan to file a patent application
  • Your invention is technical, complex, or part of a competitive industry
  • You need a clear understanding of potential competitors
  • You want to avoid investing thousands in a patent that may get rejected

Professional search providers, like Edison Law Group, use advanced search tools, classification codes, and attorney-level analysis to find references that most inventors simply won’t catch on their own.

How Much Should a Patent Search Cost?

Patent search pricing varies depending on the complexity of the invention. In general, you can expect:

  • Simple searches: $300–$600
  • Moderately complex inventions: $600–$1,200
  • Highly technical or specialized inventions: $1,200–$2,000+

Edison Law Group offers transparent, flat-rate pricing that keeps your budget in mind. We believe inventors should never feel unsure about what they’re paying for, which is why every search includes a detailed report, professional interpretation, and recommendations for next steps.

If you’re serious about filing a patent, this investment can save you far more money—and time—than proceeding blindly.

Can You Do a Patent Search Yourself?

Yes, you can perform a basic patent search on your own. Many inventors do this before hiring a professional as a first step to familiarize themselves with the patent landscape. There are several free online tools available, such as:

  • Google Patents
  • USPTO Patent Public Search
  • Espacenet

These platforms are helpful for preliminary exploration, but they have limitations. DIY searches often miss important prior art because:

  • They require understanding patent classification systems
  • Many inventions are described using technical or obscure terminology
  • International patents may not appear in some free databases
  • It’s easy to misinterpret what is—or isn’t—relevant

A self-search is a good starting point, but it should not be relied upon for a final decision. When thousands of dollars in patent filings and the future of your invention are at stake, professional guidance is the safer option.

What Is the Best Patent Search Tool?

While free databases are accessible, the best “tool” for a thorough, reliable search isn’t a platform—it’s a trained professional who knows how to use those tools effectively.

At Edison Law Group, our team leverages:

  • USPTO classification-based search techniques
  • International patent databases
  • Non-patent literature resources
  • Decades of patent law experience

No single tool compares to the combination of expertise, legal understanding, and strategic search methodology that a patent attorney provides. That’s why serious inventors choose Edison Law Group to get an accurate picture of what’s already out there.

Should You Pay for a Patent Search?

If you want confidence, clarity, and a strong foundation for your patent application, the answer is yes. A professional patent search ensures you invest in a patent that stands a real chance of approval—and protects your idea long term.

Edison Law Group is here to help you move forward with certainty. Let our team perform a comprehensive search and guide you through the next steps of protecting your invention.

Ready to get started?

Visit EdisonLawGroup.com today to schedule your patent search and take the first step