I took a class that had a little bit on patents while in college and I think you need to check it out as much as you can on the net but I do remember that you need to draw up the idea or write it up and date it and maybe have it notarized so you have proof of it being your design. If I were you I would do this before you went to a lawyer or patent person. Then I would use a copy of that to go for help and put the original in a safe secure place. Do your research.
Lynda