The patent term extension is a special allowance created in the patent law that under certain conditions Utility and plant patents which issue from original applications filed on or after May 29, 2000 may obtain an extension on their patents. This isn’t an unconditional extension but one that can be granted under the conditions listed in 37 CFR 1.702 - 1.705. You can be sure if a utility and plant patent holder qualifies they will file for it in a timely manner so that they don’t lose out on the protection. Patent lawyers ensure that their clients are very aware if the fall under the conditions of the patent term extension.
Make sure you qualify before you apply for a patent term extension
July 17th, 2008 | Reference