A patent is a complex legal document, and most businesses do use a patent agent to help draft the patent specification and process the application. Mishandled applications can limit the scope of any patent you obtain, or even prevent you from getting a patent at all.
You can choose to file an initial application without using an agent, particularly if you are unsure whether it will be worth getting a patent. A patent agent can usually 'rescue' the application later, but there is an element of risk.
Typical fees are from £800 for an initial application, and from £2,000 to complete the full UK application process. More complex technologies will involve higher costs. Preparing thoroughly - providing your agent with a description, drawings, information on existing products and so on - will help to limit the costs.
Your legal advisers can recommend patent agents and put you in contact with them. Reputable agents should be members of the Chartered Institute of Patent Agents (www.cipa.org.uk) which can provide a list of members and also runs free clinics. Many agents will themselves offer a free initial consultation.
