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How Does The Patent Process Work?

How are patent claims written?

Please review the patent claims document for an example

How long does it take to get a patent?

A patent is issued after a legal "give and take" with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) called patent prosecution.  Patent prosecution may take 1 - 5 years.

However, commercialization activities may begin as soon as an Invention Disclosure Report is received by the Office of Technology Commercialization or following filing of the patent application.

How long can a patent be enforced?

A patent expires 20 years from the initial filing date, regardless of when it issues.

How much does it cost to get a patent?

Application for a patent costs approximately $15-20,000 per country.

Does the inventor pay for the patent?

No, for inventions in which M. D. Anderson asserts rights, M. D. Anderson pays all the expenses of applying for a patent and defending it in court if necessary.


© 2009 The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center