Menu
Log in



CALIFORNIA LAWYERS 

FOR THE ARTS

Serving the Creative Arts Community Since 1974


California Inventors Assistance Program [CIAP]


Under Section 32 of the “America Invents Act,” the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) established a new pro bono program, the California Inventors Assistance Program, designed to assist financially under-resourced independent inventors and small businesses.

CLA was selected as the statewide Administrator of the program throughout California to process pro bono intakes in conjunction with the USPTO.  The CIAP also currently provides services to six western U.S. states (Hawaii, Alaska, Washington, Oregon, California and Nevada). 

See this LINK for information from the USPTO about pro bono services for patent applicants.

This article published in the Managing IP profiles the CIAP and other pro bono patent programs.

USPTO Pro Bono Program - American Bar Association article on how the USPTO's regional pro bono programs are working for independent inventors and small businesses.

To Begin a CIAP Referral:

  • Complete the Referral Request located at this linkThis application and a financial screening application with supporting documentation is required for members of the inventor community seeking pro bono CIAP assistance.
  • CLICK HERE for a 39 minute, 30-module informational video/certification program: "Basic Patent Training for Independent Inventors and Small Businesses." Independent inventor applicants are required to review and complete this video material PRIOR to receiving assistance under the CIAP.

Please note this assistance may  NOT  be free. This financial assistance only means legal fees will be waived by the attorneys working on your matter. There may be other fees and costs associated with your matter that you will be responsible for paying such as filing fees, copying fees, search fees, etc. The attorneys helping you will not be able to pay these fees on your behalf.

© Copyright 2015 Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP. Reproduced with Permission.

Success Story: 
IP Watchdog: The Bill Carpenter Story: The Path to a Granted United States Patent -- a patent granted with the assistance of the CIAP.   

Check out Upcoming Events at the Silicon Valley USPTO Office!  https://www.uspto.gov/about-us/uspto-locations/silicon-valley-california


  

 

California Lawyers for the Arts is a tax exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit and your donation is tax deductible as a charitable contribution to the fullest extent of the law.  State Bar LRS Certificate #0021.

MCLE Provider # 1248.

The information provided on this website is not legal advice. You should consult with an attorney for individual advice regarding your legal matters.

Copyright © 2022. California Lawyers for the Arts. All Rights Reserved. 

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software