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Claims Analysis
We start by reading the patent's claims closely — not just the abstract. We identify the key elements that need to be invalidated and map out a targeted search strategy.
What Is a Patent Invalidity Search?
A patent invalidation search is a focused investigation into the prior art surrounding a granted patent. The goal is straightforward: find published materials, patents, academic papers, technical documents, product manuals, or public disclosures that existed before the patent's priority date and undermine its claims.
When solid prior art is found, it can be used to:
- Challenge a patent in court
- File an inter partes review (IPR) or post-grant review (PGR)
- Negotiate a licensing dispute from a stronger position
- Knock out overly broad or weak patent claims entirely
If someone is waving a patent at you, the first question worth asking is - should that patent even be valid?
Why This Search Is More Than Just a Database Lookup
A lot of firms run a few keyword searches and call it done. We don't work that way.
A credible patent invalidity analysis requires understanding the technical subject matter, reading the claims carefully, and searching across multiple source types, not just patent databases. Non-patent literature, foreign filings, industry publications, conference papers, and even product catalogs often hold the most damaging prior art.
Our team combines legal understanding with technical research skills to build a search strategy that actually targets the claims you're fighting.
Our Process
- 02
Multi-Source Research
Our researchers search across patent databases (USPTO, EPO, WIPO, JPO), academic journals, technical papers, trade publications, open-source repositories, and more. We cast a wide net, then narrow down what's most relevant.
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Prior Art Mapping
Every strong candidate is mapped against the patent's independent and dependent claims. We're looking for references that anticipate or render obvious what's being claimed.
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Patent Invalidity Search Report
You receive a clear, well-organized patent invalidity search report that includes identified prior art references, claim-by-claim mapping, source citations, and our assessment of invalidation potential. It's built to be used by litigation counsel, in IPR petitions, or in licensing negotiations.
Whom We Work With
- In-house teams preparing for patent litigation
- Law firms that need reliable research support
- Startups and product companies facing infringement threats
- Investors doing freedom-to-operate due diligence
- Licensing negotiators who need leverage
Why Choose Virtue Legal Services?
We're not generalists. Patent research is what we do, and we've worked across a wide range of technologies, mechanical, electrical, software, biotech, and chemical. We understand that the quality of a patent invalidity search can make or break a legal strategy, so we treat every project with that level of seriousness.
You get real researchers, clear communication, and a report you can actually use in front of a judge or examiner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most projects are completed within 5–10 business days, depending on complexity. Rush timelines are available.
Yes. Our patent invalidity search reports are structured to support IPR and PGR filings, and we can work closely with your litigation counsel throughout the process.
We'll tell you honestly. A negative result is still valuable — it tells you where you stand before investing in litigation.
Yes. We search across global patent offices and can work with foreign-language prior art sources.
Ready to Challenge a Patent?
If you're facing a patent threat or want to know whether a competitor's patent will hold up under scrutiny, let's talk. Our team is ready to start your patent invalidity search and give you the clarity you need to move forward.