Help & How-To

Legal Issues
Is it possible to patent a similar idea that already exists?
I have an idea that I performed a patent search on and found that somebody has already had a similar idea patented. This idea I found was patented back in 1970s. My idea is more up to date but is still the same principle. Would it be possible to still try and attempt to patent my idea? How long do patents usually last?

Asked by ah64aplt
Posted: Tuesday, June 19, 2007  |  Found in Legal Issues


More answers by Brad Sugars
Answer by Brad Sugars
To answer your questions simply, yes, as long as you can prove it's different enough.

That said, it would be best if you think the idea has a lot of commercial merit to speak directly with a patent attorney and get a thought on whether your idea is different enough.
Brad Sugars is the founder of ActionCOACH, a business coaching franchise. As a world-renowned entrepreneur, author and business coach, he has helped more than a million clients around the world find business and personal success. Sugars has owned and operated more than two dozen companies including his main company, ActionCOACH, which has nearly 1,000 offices in 22 countries.


Recent Articles & Resources
We've gathered content from some of the best resources on the web. Find tips to help you run a successful business with this collection of videos, articles, expert blogs, and more.
Why Time is More Valuable Than Money
By Norm Brodsky I see a lot of people who are starting out on their first venture, and they all have the same obsession: money. They want to know how

Marketing and promotion
Nancy Meyers talks about how leveraging new mediums and taking innovative approaches are often necessary to the successful marketing and promotion of

Building and maximizing your network
Use this worksheet to identify the people you want to connect with, where and how to find them and how to make sure you’re spending your valuable

Assessing customer profitability
It’s a standard business adage that it is easier (and less expensive) to sell to a current customer than to acquire a new one. Determining which of

Pitching your business
Whether you are making a sales presentation, seeking financing, networking at an event, or even just chatting with a neighbor, you need to have your
Have a burning question? Ask now!