Intellectual Property

Much of our work is concerned with intellectual property (IP) and we would consider ourselves to be specialists in this field. We have experience of advising clients in relation to all of the main types of IP, including patents, copyright, database rights, designs, trade marks and confidential information.

The majority of our work in these areas relates to commercial transactions, although we also have experience of IP disputes. We do not get involved in patent filings, as we consider this to be a separate area of specialisation. We can assist clients to find patent agents if required.

At the heart of IP transactions are licences and assignments, as well as larger transactions that include elements of IP licensing and assignment (e.g. evaluation and option agreements, pipeline agreements, corporate transactions, research and development agreements, etc). We have experience across a wide range of IP-related agreement types and across a wide range of technology and IP areas, including life sciences, software, telecommunications and engineering.

We have experience of trade mark licensing, franchising, character merchandising and sponsorship agreements, as well as publishing and arts-related copyright licensing.

We have advised IT and telecoms clients in relation to licences, supply agreements, tender documentation, teaming agreements, reseller agreements, support and maintenance agreements, service level agreements and many other types of contracts.