How do I implement my idea without it getting stolen by others?

How do I implement my idea without it getting stolen by others?

Let’s say I have an idea but know next to nothing on how to execute it. Hence, I would need either collaborators or people who can guide or advise me on what to do. What will stop them from stealing my idea and doing it themselves since they have the know-how?

Initially, you would need to use a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with people who you are exposing your idea to.

A patent on a mere idea is not valid in most jurisdictions. You likely need to have a description of how the thing would be built/work in practice to get a valid patent.

Generally, in the absence of a patent or NDA, anyone can take your idea and develop a product.

Exceptions to the general rule are solicitors (lawyers) and patent attorneys, who are automatically prevented by laws and codes of conduct from taking your work if you are their client.

Mark Warburton About the author

The Intellectual Property Guru. His determination to protect innovation stems from a family legacy in which his grandfather, a genius inventor, had his innovations stolen and patented by someone he trusted, which led to his grandfather dying a pauper on a park bench. Mark is an international award winning lawyer and patent attorney and 3-time published author. His prowess in the court room sees him winning cases that others thought were unwinnable. Mark’s passion for protecting intellectual property shines through in his pro-bono legal mentoring, proactive legal workshops and 1-2-1 work with clients.