How long is the protection of patents if granted?

Patents provide a significant form of protection for inventions, granting inventors exclusive rights to their creations for a specific duration. When a patent is granted, it typically remains in force for a period of 20 years from the filing date, assuming the necessary maintenance fees are paid. This 20-year term allows the patent holder to commercialize their invention without competition, encouraging innovation by providing a temporary monopoly.

The other options suggest durations that exceed the legally established term or are not standard for patent protections. Thus, understanding the 20-year period is essential for those working in fields related to intellectual property, as it lays the groundwork for discussions about the duration and strategy of patent protection.