advice and possible assistance

[glamont]

Good morning,
I have an idea and thought I could simply look at a current patent and fill in the blanks to apply for a patent; However, it's not as easy to make sure I fill it in correctly as it looks.  I was thinking a provisional patent to start with and then move on to the full Utility patent.  I see websites that offer inexpensive assistance, but I've also read that some of those websites might take my idea and run with it before I get started.  I was thinking that a paralegal to help me get the provisional patent done might be the best alternative, and think about the next step.  Anyone have advice how to get going and who I can trust?
Thanks.

[Brad]

Hi and welcome,

A paralegal is not allowed to write and file patents.  Only a registered attorney or agent can do that type of work.  You can search for registered attorney and agents here:
https://oedci.uspto.gov/OEDCI/practitionerSearchEntry

Generally anyone who's on that list is going to be trustworthy and is somewhat vetted by the US Patent Office plus they have to take a very difficult exam called the patent bar exam if for some reason they stole your idea they would lose their license and potentially lose their license to practice law so not be worth it for them you could also ask them to sign a non-disclosure agreement before disclosing your idea to them.