A patent search is usually the first step in the patent process. Inventors can learn if they have a unique idea or an idea that has similar patents (prior art) that have been issued or are in the process of being issued. A patent search should be done before paying for a patent application. It is also a very good idea to have a patentability opinion done by a registered patent agent or patent attorney. These steps can save thousands of dollars in the event that the USPTO examiner denies your patent application due to prior art.