Patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets comparedReviewed 9 November 2026
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Questions & answers

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Questions & answers

What are the four types of intellectual property?
Patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets.
How long does a patent last?
A utility patent generally lasts 20 years from its earliest U.S. nonprovisional filing date, if maintenance fees are paid. A design patent filed on or after May 13, 2015 lasts 15 years from grant.
How long does copyright last?
For works created on or after January 1, 1978, the life of the author plus 70 years. Works made for hire last 95 years from publication or 120 from creation, whichever ends first.