I've been working in my field for a long time and I came up with an invention that has a great potential. I discussed the idea very privately with very close friends and coworkers and everybody agreed my idea should succeed. Creating the product itself is a rather simple process which makes me very careful as to how to proceed. Anyone can copy the idea very quickly, especially if they have cash on hand. What is the best way to proceed with this so that nobody can "copy" my idea and beat me to what could be a life-changing venture ? Should I seek help from the state's patent office first or consult a patent attorney, etc ? Thanks.

Go immediately to your public library and check out a NOLO book (or similar publisher) regarding inventions and patents from the ground up. You will read about the things to do and in what order.

You will file a patent on your idea.

Good ideas, while you are following this good advice also try this for $ .50. Poor Man's Patent