Freedom to Operate (FTO) Search
Clear the path to launch by identifying in-force patents your product may infringe.
The question it answers
“Can we make, use or sell this product in our target markets without infringing someone else's in-force patent?”
A Freedom to Operate search maps your product's features against the claims of granted patents and pending applications that are in force in the countries where you plan to manufacture or sell. You receive a risk-ranked list of relevant documents, element-by-element claim analysis for the highest-risk references, and practical next steps.
Who it's for
- Startups preparing for a product launch or investor due diligence
- Manufacturers entering a new export market
- R&D teams finalising a design before tooling
- Law firms needing a search-and-analysis partner for an FTO opinion
How the engagement runs.
Step 1 · Day 0
Submit
Tell us about your product and target markets. We sign an NDA before you share any technical details, then confirm scope, jurisdictions and a fixed quote.
Step 2 · Days 1–4
Search
Your assigned analyst builds a documented strategy — keywords, CPC/IPC classes, citation chasing — across global patent databases.
Step 3 · Days 4–6
Analysis
Relevant patents are screened, legal status verified and high-risk claims charted element by element. A senior reviewer QA-checks everything.
Step 4 · Day 7
Report
Receive a risk-ranked PDF report with claim charts and an Excel reference list — and a walkthrough call for your questions.
Common questions
Other services
Patentability (Novelty) Search
Find out whether your invention is new before you invest in drafting and filing.
Invalidity Search
Locate prior art that could invalidate a patent asserted against you — or test your own.
Patent Landscape Analysis
See who is patenting what, where and how fast in your technology space.
Know your patent risk before you commit.
Tell us about your product and target markets. We'll recommend the right search, scope and turnaround — with a fixed quote within one business day.