What is the difference between a patent attorney and a patent agent?

Introduction to Patents
Glossary of Patent Terms
Invention Disclosure
Patent Related Links

7. What is the difference between a patent attorney and a patent agent?

A patent attorney is an individual who (1) is a lawyer, (2) holds a university degree in an approved technical field or who is a state registered engineer, and (3) has passed the Patent Bar Examination. A patent agent only qualifies under items (2) and (3) above. Both patent attorneys and patent agents are registered with the PTO, and are fully authorized to prepare patent applications and obtain patents for their clients. Patent agents usually charge much less for their services.

Patent agents such as I, are very familiar with patent law, and keep continuously informed on recent court decisions which influence the preparation and prosecution of patent applications. And, patent agents and patent attorneys are treated with equal status by the PTO.