Top 5 Patent Mistakes Colorado Inventors Should Avoid When Filing

Bringing a new invention to life is an exciting journey—but protecting it legally is just as critical. For many Colorado inventors, securing a patent is a key step in turning a great idea into a real business asset. However, the patent process is complex, and small missteps can lead to costly delays or even loss of rights.

At Santangelo Law Services, with offices in both Fort Collins and Denver, we’ve helped countless inventors navigate the patent process. Here are the top five mistakes Colorado inventors make when filing a patent—and how to avoid them.

1. Waiting Too Long to File

One of the biggest patent mistakes Colorado inventors make is delaying the filing process. The U.S. is a “first-to-file” system, which means the first person to file a patent—not the first to invent—gets the rights.

If you’re based in Fort Collins, Boulder, or Denver and working on a product, talk to a patent attorney as early as possible. Waiting can leave you exposed if someone else files a similar idea before you.

2. Publicly Disclosing the Invention Without Protection

Colorado inventors often showcase prototypes at startup events, post about their idea online, or discuss it with potential partners—without filing a provisional patent application or using NDAs (non-disclosure agreements). Unfortunately, this can jeopardize your ability to get a patent.

Whether you’re pitching at Denver Startup Week or demoing your product in Old Town Fort Collins, protect your idea first.

3. DIY Patent Applications Without Legal Review

With so many online tools available, it’s tempting to try the patent process alone. But patents are complex legal documents, and filing incorrectly could mean your invention isn’t actually protected.

At our Fort Collins and Denver offices, we regularly assist inventors who tried to file themselves and ended up needing major corrections—or worse, lost their rights entirely. Working with an experienced Colorado patent attorney ensures your application is accurate, strategic, and enforceable.

4. Failing to Do a Proper Patent Search

Just because you’ve never seen your invention doesn’t mean it hasn’t been patented. Skipping a comprehensive prior art search is a major risk.

Our team performs deep searches across U.S. and global databases, so Colorado inventors can move forward with confidence. Avoid wasting time and resources on something that may already exist in the patent landscape.

5. Not Thinking Ahead to Commercialization

A patent isn’t just about filing a document—it’s about supporting a business strategy. Many inventors in Northern Colorado and the Front Range overlook how their patent fits into long-term licensing, production, or fundraising goals.

We help clients in Fort Collins, Denver, and across Colorado align their IP protection with their market plans. From investor meetings to manufacturer negotiations, having a strong patent strategy gives you leverage.

The patent process can be daunting, but avoiding these common mistakes can put you ahead of the curve. Whether you’re an early-stage startup founder in Denver or an independent inventor in Fort Collins, working with an experienced legal partner ensures your invention gets the protection—and value—it deserves.

At Santangelo Law Services, we specialize in helping Colorado innovators secure their intellectual property and build businesses that last.

Need Help With the Patent Process in Colorado?

Schedule a consultation with our patent attorneys in Fort Collins or Denver. We’ll walk you through the process and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Contact Us to protect your idea today.