How long does a patent last?

In Pennsylvania, patents generally last for twenty years. A patent is an exclusive right given to an inventor to prevent others from making, using, or selling their invention. After a patent has been granted, this exclusive right will remain in effect for a period of 20 years from the date of filing the patent application. During this period, the inventor is the only one who is allowed to make, use, or sell their invention, and any infringement of this right by others is punishable by law. However, it is important to note that the 20-year period of exclusivity does not always last for the full 20 years. Depending on the specific circumstances of a patent, it may lapse or be revoked early. For example, if the patent holder does not pay their patent office maintenance fees, the patent may be revoked. Additionally, if the patent is declared invalid by a court of law or found to be not novel or non-obvious, it may also be canceled. Therefore, although patents are usually granted for a 20-year period, the actual duration of a patent may be shorter or even indefinitely extended depending on the situation. In any case, it is important to be aware of the patent laws and regulations in Pennsylvania, so that any infringement of a patent is avoided.

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