Patent Pro Bono Program Volunteer Signup

Are you a patent practitioner and interested in providing pro bono services for eligible inventors? If so, you can volunteer by applying here. Please send the completed form to jmd7899@pdu.edu and IPClinic@pennstatelaw.psu.edu.

Pro Bono – FAQs

Does the Patent Pro Bono Program provide malpractice insurance for volunteer attorneys?
No, the Patent Pro Bono Program does not provide malpractice insurance for volunteer attorneys. Please contact your carrier about specifics about your particular case. 

How are volunteer attorneys paired with eligible inventors for representation?
Volunteer patent attorneys will be matched with inventors based on the field of the invention and the volunteer attorney's expertise in, or knowledge of, that field, taking into account conflicts issues.

What responsibilities will attorney volunteers have in representing pro bono clients as part of the Patent Pro Bono Program?
The scope of services provided under the Patent Pro Bono Program is designed to be flexible, accommodating the needs of both the volunteer attorney and the inventor. An engagement letter between the volunteer attorney and the client is strongly recommended. This engagement letter will generally define the scope of the representation. In general, services are focused on preparation, filing, and prosecution of a patent application before the USPTO.

For additional information, visit the USPTO page here.