Licensing refers to the renting or leasing of IP. It involves the regulation of the right to use given by the owner of the right (Licensor) to a licensed user (Licensee).

As multiple parties are involved, the licensing process must deliver a commercially workable agreement that safeguards the respective legal rights of the Licensor and Licensee. This includes:

  • the nature and boundaries of use
  • quality control
  • audit inspection
  • royalty examinations 

How we can help:

  • advice on the legal rights of Licensors and Licensees
  • development of a commercially workable agreement
  • management of the use of intellectual property such as patents, trademarks, copyright and industrial designs

Franchising is a method of conducting business where tried and proven methods are disclosed to a franchisee in exchange for recurring annual fees or payment, which is usually a percentage of the franchisee’s gross sales or gross profits.

Putting your brand up for franchise involves a certain degree of risk, particularly as it involves your trademarks and unique business operation. This means that franchisors always have specific IP issues to consider.

How we can help:

  • pre-contract investigations
  • relevant and crucial advice on franchise initiatives