Intellectual property (IP) can be a very valuable asset but is a
complex area of law - disputes can be costly and distracting.
IP is protected by registration/grant, by contracts and by
court
action.
registration/grant
Formally granted or registered rights are available for trade
marks, registered design rights and inventions. Registration
can be effected for the UK, through the UK Intellectual Property
Office or through the Office for Harmonisation in the Internal
Market (OHIM) for the EU - see our useful links for
details. The costs and registration fees involved depend upon
the scope of protection sought. Please contact the IP team on
info@bllaw.co.uk for further
details.
contracts
Clear and comprehensive contracts make disputes less likely,
providing evidence of ownership and rights should a dispute
occur. Contracts are essential for:
- development and commissioning
- joint development / ownership
- transfer of ownership
- confidentiality and non-compete
- usage (licensing)
Please click on the following pages for more information on
trade marks/registered design and exploitation.
We can assist in the drafting and negotiating of patent license
agreements, but not in the process of applying for patents. See our
useful
links for details on patent agents, the UK Intellectual
Property Office and the OHIM who would be able to help.