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Intellectual property (IP) is the collective term for rights to creations of the mind: texts, designs, software, trademarks, inventions, and more. These rights give the creator control over their work — and mean that you may not simply use someone else's work.
IE is everywhere
You are reading this text, which is protected by copyright. The device has been designed, the software created, the brand registered — all protected by intellectual property rights. IP is interwoven into virtually everything you make and use.
The most important IP rights
The best-known rights are copyright (on works such as texts, designs, photos, and software), trademark law (on names and logos), trade name law (on your company name), design law (on the appearance of products), and patent law (on technical inventions). Which right applies depends on what you are protecting.
Protecting your own IP
Protect what is valuable: register your brand, stipulate that the copyright to the work of employees and freelancers rests with you, and arrange for the confidentiality of your know-how. This prevents others from running off with your creations.
Do not infringe upon that of another
Conversely, you must be careful not to infringe: do not use another person's text, image, trademark, or design without permission. Check in advance and arrange licenses for anything you use from others. Infringement can result in a claim for damages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What falls under intellectual property?
Including copyright, trademark law, trade name law, design law, and patent law — the rights to creations of the mind.
Does my business have to do with IP?
Almost certainly: IP rights already play a role in your name, logo, website, and software, both for protection and to prevent infringement.
How do I protect my IP?
By registering where necessary, contractually establishing rights, and keeping know-how confidential.
Managing your intellectual property?
Our legal experts assist with protection, registration, and licensing. View our IPor copyrightteam, or schedule a free consultation.
