Patent Maintenance Fee
/ˈpætənt ˈmeɪntənəns fi/
Definitions
- (n.) A periodic fee paid to a patent office to keep a granted patent in force.
The inventor paid the patent maintenance fee to avoid expiration of her patent.
Forms
- patent maintenance fee
- patent maintenance fees
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Typically required at set intervals during the patent term; nonpayment results in patent lapse.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.