Intellectual property

Many businesses, from self-employed freelancers to large multi-national companies, rely on their unique brand, ideas and innovations for their success. To secure that success, it is often necessary to take action to protect these intellectual property (IP) assets or defend your IP where it is being infringed upon.

Protecting your IP effectively requires specialist advice and support to ensure the right legal provisions are put in place. This can include everything from applying for trade marks and patents, to establishing copyright and database rights, as well as making sure the right measures are included in contracts of employment and commercial agreements.

No matter what size your business is, protecting your intellectual property is critical in the success of your company. Due to the popular misconception that only large corporations need to safeguard their creation or brand, many individuals or small businesses have had their invention or idea stolen or copied and sold on, and without legal protection, redress may not be possible.

At Fishers, our experienced Intellectual Property solicitors understand the value of these intangible assets and will be on hand to assist you in identifying and protecting your inventions, products and brands.

For immediate, expert advice on any aspect of intellectual property law, get in touch with our solicitors in Tamworth or Ashby de la Zouch today.

Our intellectual property law services

Our intellectual property lawyers in Ashby de la Zouch and Tamworth offer a comprehensive IP law service for all types of businesses and organisations.

Our IP law expertise includes:

• Trade marks
• Patents
• Copyright and rights in software
• Database rights
• Confidential information
• Unfair competition and trading practices
• Employee management
• Commercial agreements
• Intellectual property dispute resolution

Common questions about intellectual property law

What counts as intellectual property?

According to the World Intellectual Property Organization, “intellectual property (IP) refers to creations of the mind: inventions, literary and artistic works, and symbols, names, images, and designs used in commerce.”

Or, to put it simply, intellectual property is any unique creation that provides you with economic benefit.

Exactly what assets your business owns that may be considered your IP will vary, but common examples include your brand name, logo and slogan, as well as product designs, marketing copy, inventions and databases.

If you believe your organisation has assets that need to be protected, please get in touch and we will be happy to discuss your options and the steps you need to take.

Who owns intellectual property created by an employee or freelancer?

Any IP created by an employee will usually belong to their employer, unless there is specific provision in their contract of employment that specifies otherwise.

However, anything IP created by someone who is self-employed will belong to the creator, unless is was created on commission for someone else and there is a contract in place stating that they own the IP rights for the work.

It is therefore essential for businesses, employees and the self-employed to be clear about what the intended situation is with regards to IP rights for any work created and to make sure this is reflected in the contracts between the relevant parties.

What happens if someone infringes your IP or accuses you of IP infringement?

Intellectual property disputes can usually be sorted out without the need for court proceedings, using negotiation, commercial mediation and other non-confrontational approaches. This means IP disputes can often be resolved faster and at lower cost, while keeping the matter private and avoiding unnecessary conflict.

Our lawyers are experts in business dispute resolution, so can help to resolve IP disputes quickly and cost-effectively, while ensuring you achieve the right outcome for your organisation.

Why choose Fishers for intellectual property law?

Our team have extensive experience with a wide range of intellectual property law matters, regularly acting for a variety of businesses in both contentious and non-contentious matters.

We believe in taking the time to get to know your business and your commercial goals, so we can offer tailored solutions that help you achieve exactly what you need to for both short and long-term success.

We place a strong emphasis on good communication, so from the moment you first contact us, we will always be available when you need us, whether to answer a question, provide an update or advise you on any issues that need your consideration.

Fishers Solicitors is independently regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

Get in touch intellectual property lawyers in Staffordshire & Leicestershire

For further information on any of our IP protection services or to book an appointment with one of our intellectual property solicitors, please contact your local Fishers office in Tamworth or Ashby de la Zouch.

Alternatively, you can complete our simple enquiry form and a member of our team will be in touch promptly.