by Tom McGuire,
Head of the Innovation & Technology Group
at Taylor Vinters

Introduction | Page 2 | Page 3

Although entrepreneurs have many demands on their time, and sorting out the legal formalities of their businesses may not be top priority, it is vitally important to protect a company's intellectual property rights from the very beginning.

The first members of staff taken on, or the first directors appointed, should all have comprehensive and formal employment contracts or service agreements. This is also true for third party contractors and consultants. These contracts should vest in the company all the rights to the intellectual property developed or created in the course of their work for the company. Each member of staff or director should also agree to do anything required to perfect the company's title to these rights. This could mean testifying in court on behalf of the company protecting or enforcing its rights, or signing documents confirming the company's rights.

more>>