intellectual property protection

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.

For more information, please contact Jill Bainbridge, head of our Intellectual Property team, on 023 8085 7160; email jill.bainbridge@bllaw.co.uk