There are three ways for a patent to expire: 1. The patent has reached the end of its legally prescribed life. 2. Maintenance fees on the patent were not paid. 3. A court finds the patent is invalid. Utility and plant patents hav… See more

A patent can only be renewed under limited circumstances. A patent that expires because it has reached its maximum lifespan cannot be renewed. A patent that expires due to an unintentional failure to pay mainte… See more

The holder of a patent loses all their patent rights when it expires. They can no longer prevent others from copying their invention, can no longer collect royalties, and the invention enters the public domain. See more

There are many strategies companies use to prepare for patent expiration including: pre-emptive generic launch; layering innovations; and standard adoption. A patent attorney with understanding of your unique situ… See more