Services / Technology agreements

Technology agreements, IP licensing and ownership

A technology agreement should explain who owns what, what each party may do, and what happens if the relationship changes. I help businesses address those questions when developing, licensing, acquiring or commercializing intellectual property.

My work includes IP licences, technology and development agreements, confidentiality arrangements, assignments and IP due diligence.

Licensing intellectual property

Licensing arrangements may concern software, patents, trademarks, designs or other rights. Important commercial questions include the permitted uses, territory, exclusivity, payment structure, control of improvements, enforcement and what happens when the agreement ends.

The right structure depends on the technology, the business relationship and the value each party expects to receive.

Development and ownership arrangements

Businesses should understand the ownership and use rights associated with work done by founders, employees, contractors, development partners and suppliers. An agreement may need to address existing technology, newly developed material, third-party components and future changes.

For software projects, it is useful to identify the relevant code, documentation and licences alongside the provisions governing ownership of the finished product.

Confidential information

Confidentiality provisions should address what information is covered, why it is being shared, permitted uses and disclosures, and the obligations that continue after the relationship ends.

An NDA is one part of protecting confidential information. The surrounding working arrangements and handling of information also need attention.

Financing, acquisitions and IP due diligence

An IP review for a transaction may examine registered rights and applications, ownership records, licences, restrictions, disputes and the role of third-party technology. The review should be tailored to the business and the transaction.

I work with clients and their other advisers to identify issues, assess their significance and determine what further work or documentation is needed.

Starting an inquiry

Identify the parties, the general transaction or agreement type and any known deadline. We will confirm arrangements before receiving confidential agreements.

Discuss a technology agreement or IP transaction

Related services: Licensing | Ownership | Due diligence | Confidentiality agreements