How long does a patent last?

In Washington, the length of a patent depends on the type of patent being sought. The most common type of patent is called a utility patent. This type of patent lasts for 20 years from the date the patent application is filed. This means that if your patent application is ultimately approved, it will stay in effect for 20 years. Design patents are another type of patent that covers the shape or ornamental designs of an item. Design patents generally last for 14 years from the date of the patent being granted. Plant patents are a third type of patent and these last for 20 years from the date the patent application is filed. Plant patents are used to protect new varieties of plants that have been created through asexual reproduction. Finally, reissue patents are a fourth type of patent and these are typically used to fix minor mistakes that occurred during the patent process. In Washington, reissue patents generally last for the remaining term of the original patent plus another 14 years. In conclusion, the length of a patent in Washington depends on the specific type of patent being sought. Generally, utility patents last for 20 years, design patents last for 14 years, plant patents last for 20 years, and reissue patents last for the remaining term of the original patent plus another 14 years.

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