Q: How do I prevent someone from stealing my idea? I want to show it to a company next week but it’s not patented yet...

A: That's a tough one. Before you show it to them, ask if they'll sign what’s called a 'confidentiality agreement'. The agreement basically names your invention and verifies that on such and such a date you showed it to them with the understanding they wouldn't disclose it to anyone or use it themselves without compensating you. But sometimes companies will refuse to sign it. They’re afraid they may already have a similar product in the works and they don’t want to restrict themselves. They may even act insulted, but an 'honest' company will understand your concerns even if they refuse to sign.

An additional option is what is known as a 'Poor Man's Patent'. (I know, I know, it should be called the 'Poor Person’s Patent' but, hey, we can’t change the world overnight). You describe your invention, with drawings or photos if possible, seal it in an envelope and mail it to yourself by regsitered mail. Make sure the post office date-stamps it on the back with their date-stamp covering the sealed flap of the envelope (that way, if you ever go to court, the judge can verify it's never been opened and altered.). When it arrives at your door, you sign for it and file it in a safe place without ever opening it! Since I do this regularly, (pathetic, but fun, and it’s affirmative) I have collected tons of envelopes. So, which invention is in which envelope? I write the name of the invention on the outside of the envelope as a reminder! Remember - the Poor Man’s Patent only proves you had the idea on a certain date. You may not have been first, however! And that’s the curious thing about inventions. Ever noticed how lots of poeple seem to get the same idea all at once? If you tried to defend it in court you’d need tons of money for legal fees, so presumably you wouldn’t be 'poor' - you'd have invested $20,000 in a proper patent to start with, right? It’s a catch 22...

The best advice I can give is to identify the best company to work with and then trust them. When they say 'ideas are a dime a dozen', they mean an idea is important, but it's only the beginning... successfully getting it to market is the key. Besides, you have lots more ideas where that one came from.

Best regards,
Inventor Mentor