ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Patent attorney

Okay, so have you ever played a really cool game with your friends and wished that no one else could play it unless they asked you for permission? Well, that's kind of like what a patent is. It's a special kind of permission you can get from the government if you come up with something really cool and unique.

But, there are a lot of rules and laws that go along with getting a patent. That's where a patent attorney comes in. Think of them like a teacher or coach who helps you do everything just right so you can get that special permission. They know all the rules and can help you fill out papers and talk to the government people who decide if your idea is good enough for a patent.

If you get a patent, it means you can stop anyone else from making or using your idea without your permission. Kind of like how you get to keep the ball when you score a goal in soccer!

And just like how you need to practice and train to be good at soccer, you need to work really hard and be really creative to come up with something that's patent-worthy. But with help from a patent attorney, you can increase your chances of getting that special permission and protecting your idea.