Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

"expired" doesn't mean you can't sue for infringement. For six years (someone check me on this), you can sue for infringements that happened while the patent was unexpired.


I seem to recall that you have to show intent to commercialize a patent in order to enforce it. Is that a thing, or just a bit of urban folklore that I picked up somewhere?


IANAL but I don't think that's true.

A patent doesn't allow you to practice an invention; it allows you to exclude others from practicing it.




Consider applying for YC's Summer 2026 batch! Applications are open till May 4

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: