How long does a patent last?

In Utah, a patent generally lasts for twenty years from the date the patent is filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This period of time is known as the patent term. During the patent term, the patent owner has exclusive rights to manufacture, use, or sell the invention in the United States. After the initial twenty-year term ends, the rights to the invention will expire, and the invention will enter the public domain, meaning that anyone can use or reproduce the invention without the patent holder’s permission. However, there are exceptions to this rule. In some cases, the patent term may be extended for up to fourteen years after the initial term ends. This extension is only available to patents that were applied for after June 8, 1995. In addition, the USPTO allows certain patents to be maintained for a longer period of time if certain maintenance fees are paid. If these fees are not paid, the patent will expire and the invention will enter the public domain. Overall, the typical patent term in Utah lasts for twenty years from the date the patent is filed with the USPTO. However, in some cases, this time period may be extended for up to fourteen years after the initial twenty-year term ends, or the patent holder may be able to maintain the patent for a longer period of time if certain maintenance fees are paid.

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