Patent Pro Bono Program Guidelines

Program Prerequisites

Before applying for the Patent Pro Bono Program, you must have completed the USPTO Training Module, “Basic Patent Training for Inventors and Small Businesses” (you will be asked to upload your completion certificate during the application process)

Program Terms and Conditions

By completing my TALA membership application, I agree to the following:

  • I understand that I am not entering into an attorney-client relationship with TALA or any of TALA’s employees.  TALA is a volunteer matching service only and does not offer legal advice or direct legal services.
  • I understand that my communications with TALA are not confidential, and I should not provide TALA with confidential or proprietary information. I should provide this information only to the volunteer attorney or patent agent with whom I’m matched.
  • I understand that no attorney-client relationship exists between me and any TALA volunteer until we have entered into a mutually-agreed written engagement contract.
  • Prior to entering an engagement contract with me, an attorney or patent agent may vet my suitability as a client by running a check for conflicts of interest, running prior art searches on my invention, or performing other routine investigations. I agree to provide all information necessary to assist the attorney/agent in this process.
  • Patent matters can be time sensitive, and I understand that TALA cannot guarantee that a suitable volunteer match will be found within a specified amount of time. I understand that I am ultimately responsible for my own filing deadlines.
  • While TALA volunteers provide legal services free of charge, I understand that I will be expected to pay patent office fees and any out-of-pocket costs involved in the representation. These costs may include draftperson charges, computerized research charges, patent search charges, copying costs, postage, etc.
  • I understand that TALA cannot predict or promise any specific outcome for my case.
  • I understand that TALA reserves the right to terminate my membership if I no longer meet eligibility guidelines, or if TALA is unable to serve me.

I AGREE with the above prerequisites, terms, and conditions and wish to apply for the TALA Patent Pro Bono Program [CLICK HERE].