When Does a Product Patent Expire?
Full Question:
After 17 years, can the product patented be copied by others without being sued for infringement ?
04/19/2011 |
Category: Intellectual Prope... |
State: Texas |
#24679
Answer:
In the United States, patents expire 20 years after the patent holder submits the application. Patents on designs, however, expire 14 years after the patent is granted. While some pharmaceutical patents can be extended past the expiration date, most patent extensions would require an act of Congress. The answer will depend on all the facts involved. Please see the information at the following link to determine expiration of the patent:
http://www.edn.com/article/460416-Checklist_When_does_a_patent_expire_.php
