Episode Summary In this episode of Infringe at Your Own Risk, intellectual property attorney Rand Bateman of Bateman IP takes a deep dive into patents—what they are, why they matter, and how they power innovation. Rand explains how patents work as a social contract, granting inventors exclusive rights while encouraging public disclosure to fuel technological progress.
He shares practical insights into the patent examination process, including how examiners assess novelty and obviousness, why “designing around” patents often leads to new inventions, and how litigation can hinge on the meaning of a single word. Rand also explores the benefits and risks of provisional patent applications, how individuals (not just corporations) can patent their ideas, and why even a small innovation can generate millions in royalties.
Whether you’re an inventor, entrepreneur, or business owner, this episode offers clear, actionable guidance on navigating the patent process and making the most of your innovations.
Key Timestamps 00:00 – Why patents are crucial for inventors and businesses 01:00 – How patents encourage innovation and knowledge sharing 03:00 – The evolution of technology through design-arounds 05:00 – The step-by-step patent application process 07:00 – How examiners assess novelty and obviousness 09:00 – Real-life patent disputes and litigation challenges 12:00 – Monetizing patents: royalties, licensing, and big payouts 14:00 – Provisional patents explained and common mistakes 16:00 – How long does it take to get a patent approved? 18:00 – Why even small inventions can be incredibly valuable 20:00 – Key takeaway: Early strategy and proper filings save time and money
About the Show: Infringe at Your Own Risk is a podcast for creators, innovators, and entrepreneurs who want to understand how intellectual property law protects their ideas, and how to avoid costly legal mistakes. Hosted by Kevin Rosenquist and featuring IP attorney Randall Bateman of Bateman IP.
Bio: Randall Bateman is a registered patent attorney and founder of Bateman IP, a Utah-based intellectual property law firm. He has over two decades of experience helping inventors, startups, and businesses protect and enforce their ideas.
Contact: Learn more or connect with Randall at batemanip.com or email rand@batemanip.com
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