Electronic Filing Software

LegalStar is offering its electronic patent filing software free until Labor Day 2004 (normally $50 per filing). I have not used their software yet, but am planning to try soon. The USPTO also offers EFS software here.

There are two reasons why I am convinced that electronic filing will be standard operating procedure for the majority of new filings within the next 18 months. First, it is likely that electronically filed applications will be given a hefty discount on filing fees. Second, attorneys will appreciate the peace of mind that comes with the immediate confirmation of filing.

It is difficult to predict whether practitioners will end up using USPTO’s filing software or that of a company like LegalStar. Any software company will need a compelling argument to show that its software is better than the USPTO’s free version. In the long run, electronic filing software will likely be tied to prosecution docketing programs and sold as a bundle.

Read the USPTO’s memo on the legal framework for electronic filing.