Granted Patents

How Long Do They Last?

As secure as intellectual property protection may seem, it by no means is permanent. This is why it really should only be pursued by anyone that is serious in moving forward with the business opportunity that is presented by their invention. Each type of patents has its own designated length of validity. Design patents unconditionally last 14 years from the point of issuance, no matter what. As of June 8, 1995, utility patents are valid for a period of 20 years from the time of filing. However, these can be invalidated if a patent-holder is not cooperative in paying the necessary maintenance fees. Similarly, most plant patents are granted for 20 years from the issuance date. Those related to trees or vines last for 25 years. These will also only stay valid as long as the holder is current on paying their associated fees.