If you want a good example of what's wrong with the U.S. patent system, just talk to Tim Beere and Cathy Brand-Beere of Fort Wayne, IN. This couple owns the quintessential mom-and-pop operation-DeBrand Fine Chocolates. The 15-year-old confectionery has three Indiana stores, and it also does a good deal of mail-order business over its Web site. Now, through no fault of their own, the Beeres are entangled in a disgraceful and costly patent fight that threatens to sour their otherwise sweet business success.

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