My fiance and I are currently in a process of developing a new product.
And we would like to protect ourselves  and/or our product.
However we don't have the  time/money  to get a patent.
Therefore what are our options ?


Product description:

Our product is something similar to a vending machine. 

WE are looking forward to the hear the answer or explanation to the
matters above.


Thank you, 


Allan & Victoria

Are you aware that:

1.  You can file a provisional application, for next to nothing.  It
is essentially a placeholder and allows you one year to file the
formal application, and claim patent pending in the meantime.  There
are guidelines to follow, but it is pretty straightforward.  You can
do it yourself.

2.  You can with practice also write your own formal patent
applications, or, do the majority of the work when you actually work
with a patent attorney.  That will save you significant money.

Lastly, keep in mind that the most important, and potentially
expensive part is the patent search.  That is the one thing you
absolutely should do yourself, or at least spend some serious time
starting.  You can search keywords online.  www.uspto.gov

Stay away from those places that offer to accept submissions on line! 
It is just either marketing for patent lawyers, or scams.