international or uk patent application?

[osteoadam]

I am about to go through the lengthy process of applying for a patent, I’ve had much advise but 2 conflicting thus far.

Obviously funds are not unlimited, but is one best filing a UK application ( about £2500 )and sounding out licensing opportunities before going down the full international route, or does having the full international application ( £6500 )make life easier when again sounding licensing?

Once I have the UK application my product will have been published, and therefore not legally copied any way, as I understand it. Obviously, we intend to get complete world protection, but only if there is interest first.

Any thoughts welcome.

[osteoadam]

thanks guys, so i may as well save on the inital cost and file uk only first to test the water.

I've searched already on espacenet and am having leeds library continue this as my starting point. How good are their searches?

[osteoadam]

i've found somebody near me who has worked alot in the medical field, but thank you for your help. I know its a mine field out there and i'm just getting more information before proceeding. i'll speak to the IP Office to find out about there searches today