A strong patent begins with one simple but often underestimated step: a comprehensive patent search. And yet, many innovators skip this stage—or perform it poorly—only to face costly rejections, design delays, or legal disputes down the line.
At Michael & Hope, we’ve seen these mistakes up close. This article breaks down the most common patent search errors—and how to avoid them.
1. Using Google Instead of Patent Databases
Google is great for inspiration. It’s terrible for patent searches. Why?
- It doesn’t cover all jurisdictions.
- It doesn’t organize results by patent classifications.
- It misses “hidden” prior art—those obscure filings that could block you.
A true search must include USPTO, EPO, WIPO, and national patent databases, using both keywords and classification codes.
Explore our Patent Search & Analysis Services to learn how we do it right.
2. Ignoring Foreign Prior Art
Just because something isn’t patented in the U.S. doesn’t mean it’s available. Foreign filings can block your application—especially under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). Many inventors mistakenly assume “if I don’t see it here, I’m clear.” That’s how applications fail.
Thinking of global protection? Link up with our International IP Protection team.
3. Skipping Commercial Relevance
Some inventions are patentable—but commercially irrelevant. A search should explore:
- How your solution compares to what’s on the market
- Whether similar tech is already being used by major players
- If your innovation solves a real, validated problem
A strong patent isn’t just novel—it’s marketable.
Our searches are always paired with market feasibility. That’s the M&H difference.
What a Smart Patent Search Includes
- Comprehensive search across multiple jurisdictions
- Keyword, classification, and concept-based querying
- Legal status of similar inventions
- Strategic gap analysis for application positioning
- Business feasibility recommendation
We don’t just hand you a search report—we give you a go/no-go decision-making tool.
What’s at Risk Without a Proper Search?
- Rejection of your application due to prior art
- Tens of thousands spent on filings that fail
- Unknowingly infringing on existing IP
- Litigation exposure from competitors
- Losing investor trust when they do their own due diligence
Schedule a Patent Search Consultation
Before you file, let’s make sure you’re ready. We’ll help you validate your idea, analyze the prior art landscape, and build a strategy that supports long-term protection.
