Intellectual property licensing solicitors
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Contact our teamIntellectual property (IP) is one of your most valuable business assets, and ensuring it is protected and properly commercialised is vital to your growth and competitive advantage.
At Moore Barlow, our experienced IP licensing solicitors help clients across a wide range of sectors to successfully navigate the complexities of IP licensing, securing and enhancing the value of your brand, innovations, and creative works.
Whether you’re granting rights to use your IP or acquiring the rights from another party, IP licensing agreements must be carefully structured to meet your commercial objectives while mitigating legal risks. Our dedicated commercial and technology lawyers provide strategic, commercially focused advice tailored to your needs, ensuring you get the most from your intellectual property.
What is IP licensing?
IP licensing is the process of allowing another party to use your intellectual property rights under a defined agreement. This can include patents, trademarks, copyrights, designs, trade secrets and software. A licence allows the licensee to use specified IP rights for agreed purposes, often in exchange for licensing fees or royalties. Licensing can be exclusive, sole or non-exclusive, depending on how much control you wish to retain over your IP rights.
IP licensing can play a crucial role in business growth, particularly in industries that rely heavily on innovation, branding or proprietary technology. Well-drafted licensing agreements protect your rights, limit liability, clarify ownership, and define the scope of use and payment terms. Without a robust agreement, you may risk losing control of your IP or face expensive legal disputes.
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How we can help
At Moore Barlow, our IP licensing solicitors work closely with you to understand your commercial goals and tailor agreements that support your strategy. We assist businesses of all sizes across various sectors, including technology, media, software, life sciences, manufacturing, education and retail.
Our services include:
- Drafting and negotiating IP licence agreements
- Advising on software licensing, including SaaS, EULAs and source code escrow
- Licensing of trademarks, patents and proprietary designs
- Franchise agreements and brand licensing
- IP assignments and ownership due diligence
- Advising on international and multi-jurisdictional licensing arrangements
- Resolving licensing disputes and enforcing IP rights
Our team ensures that each element of your licence agreement – such as exclusivity, territory, duration, scope of rights, termination, royalties and obligations – is designed to maximise commercial return while reducing the potential for misunderstandings or disputes.
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Why choose us?
Moore Barlow is recognised as a leading UK law firm with an experienced commercial and technology team that consistently delivers high-quality advice with a personal approach. Our clients value our ability to combine in-depth legal expertise with a deep understanding of their industry and commercial challenges. Here’s why businesses choose us for IP licensing:
- Specialist expertise: Our solicitors have extensive experience advising on complex licensing arrangements, both in the UK and internationally.
- Commercial focus: We prioritise your business goals and ensure that your agreements support your commercial strategy.
- Clear communication: We explain legal matters in straightforward language, giving you clarity and confidence to make informed decisions.
- Tailored solutions: From start-ups protecting their first product to multinational corporates expanding their licensing portfolio, we offer bespoke support to meet your needs.
- Industry recognised: We are ranked highly for IP law in legal directories such as The Legal 500 and Chambers UK, reflecting our reputation for client service and excellence.
We pride ourselves on building long-term relationships with our clients, providing ongoing legal and strategic advice as your business evolves.
Contact us
If you’re considering licensing your intellectual property or need legal advice on an existing agreement, speak to one of our specialist IP licensing solicitors today. We’ll take the time to understand your needs and offer expert guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Get in touch with our commercial and technology team today to arrange a consultation or to learn more about how we can help protect and maximise the value of your intellectual property.
We are here to help

Discover how our expert commercial and technology lawyers can help you.
Contact our commercial and technology team
Frequently asked questions
What types of intellectual property can be licensed?
Most forms of IP can be licensed, including patents (for inventions), trademarks (for branding elements), copyrights (for creative works), design rights and trade secrets. Software and digital content are also commonly licensed, particularly in technology and creative sectors.
What’s the difference between exclusive and non-exclusive licences?
An exclusive licence grants the licensee exclusive rights to use the IP, often meaning that even the owner cannot use it. A non-exclusive licence allows multiple licensees to use the same IP, while a sole licence allows the licensee and the licensor to use the IP, but no other third parties.
Why is a written agreement important in IP licensing?
A written agreement ensures clarity between parties regarding the extent of rights granted, financial terms, restrictions, duration, and mechanisms for resolving disputes. Verbal agreements can be ambiguous and difficult to enforce, which is why formal documentation is essential.
Can I license IP internationally?
Yes, but international IP licensing requires careful legal structuring to comply with different jurisdictions. It’s important to consider where the IP is registered, enforceability across territories, and any export control regulations. Our solicitors can advise you on cross-border licensing arrangements.
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