To check whether a granted patent specification or a possibly still pending patent application is still in force OSIP Search & Watch can execute a so-called "Status search" for you. To maintain a patent publication in force it is necessary that the renewal fees (annuities) are fulfilled on time, or with a surcharge in the overdue term. We can check the present status for you and if necessary do that periodically by putting a watch or alert on it (see Watch).
Checking the status answers the question whether or not a patent or patent application is in force, already has lapsed, or still can be restored when renewal fees are overdue, or that a supplementary protection certificate or SPC was issued (crop protection chemical compounds/pesticides or pharmaceuticals) prolonging the patent enforceable term with up to 5 more years. Also in a "due diligence" excersise status search is of eminent importance for decision makers to estimate the value of a patent portfolio, to know exactly what further maintenance costs are to be expected and when the expiry dates fall due of the property rights in a merger (joint-venture), take-over or – for the curator – in case of bankruptcy. Often certified copies of the status by the issuing authorities are called for. In addition, status searching is by default part of Infringement or Freedom to operate and Opposition or Nullity searches.
OSIP Search & Watch can perform a targeted and effective status search by means of searching in professional patent data bases and registers worldwide and report the results to you in a handy electronic format.
The cost for a status search in the patent literature amounts to the number of spent hours of searching times our hourly rate increased by the costs incurred for data base usage, and any additional document fees. On the order of 60 – 80 euro (ex VAT) per number per country is normally expected. Please bear in mind a turnaround time of ordinarily 2 – 10 working days. Sometimes it can be necessary to contact a foreign agent to ascertain the status and/or arrange for certified copies. In such case extra agent costs and/or certificate costs are incurred and a few days extra turnaround time is expected. Of course we shall provide you with our estimate and ask for your consent in advance if such is the case.
Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information or a quotation: 