(706) 638-1453. Walker County originated in 1833. Drawn from the original Cherokee County and part of Murray County, the region owes its name to Major Freeman Walker of Augusta, a lawyer and U.S. senator. Although residents first called the county seat by its Indian name, Chattooga, they later renamed it to honor the Marquis de Lafayette.
Once a patent is issued, a maintenance fee must be paid on the 4th, 8th, and 12th anniversaries of the date of issuance. You have to pay maintenance fees. http://www.uspto.gov/patents/process/maintain.jsp Also, patents are not self-enforcing.
If you get a patent, your invention should be sufficiently protected. Finally, you are protected for many years and you can sell or license the patent as you could with any asset. You also have legal recourse if someone infringes on your patented product. You can sue for royalties and damages, if desired.