The patent must be filed within one year of the invention being publicly disclosed or published. Intellectual property refers to creations of the mind: inventions, literary and artistic works, and symbols, names, images, and designs used in commerce.The Pro Se Assistance Program is dedicated to help independent inventors and small businesses meet their goal of protecting valuable intellectual property. Here's how to get a U.S. patent on your idea or invention without a lawyer. Follow these steps to do a patent search and file a patent application yourself. This page provides information on the types of patents and types of patent applications, and the examination process. Three steps to a provisional patent application: search for priorart, describe your invention, and fill out the forms. A complete, comprehensive written description of the invention is needed. Formal drawings are not required. Important: Following is general information for starting a business.