IP assignment solicitors
Explore how we help businesses with their commercial legal requirements.
Contact our teamAt Moore Barlow, we understand how valuable your intellectual property (IP) is.
Whether you’re looking to transfer IP rights as part of a business sale, restructure, or licensing arrangement, the legal intricacies of an IP assignment require careful handling. Our team of highly experienced IP assignment solicitors are here to ensure your assets are protected and that any assignment is legally sound, commercially viable and aligned with your wider business objectives.
With offices across London, the South East and the South Coast, and a reputation for delivering exceptional legal advice with a personal touch, we support businesses large and small. Our commercial and technology team works closely with clients involved in tech, media, creative industries and beyond, offering tailored advice and practical solutions that safeguard innovation and maximise commercial potential.
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What is an IP assignment?
An IP assignment is a legal process by which ownership of intellectual property rights – such as trademarks, patents, design rights, or copyright – is transferred from one party to another. This may happen due to a merger, acquisition, business sale, or internal restructuring. It differs from a licence, which grants permission to use IP without changing ownership.
Assignments must be properly documented in writing and should clearly define which rights are being transferred, under what terms, and any warranties or limitations involved. Failure to correctly execute an IP assignment can lead to disputes, financial loss, or the invalidity of the transfer.
How we can help
Our IP assignment solicitors offer comprehensive legal support through every stage of the IP transfer process. We can:
- Draft and review IP assignment agreements that are robust, enforceable, and tailored to your objectives
- Advise on the transfer of registered and unregistered IP rights, including due diligence and valuation support
- Assist with IP assignments as part of larger commercial transactions, such as M&A, licensing deals or joint ventures
- Ensure compliance with UK and international IP laws, including registration and recordal of the transfer with relevant IP offices
- Provide strategic advice on preserving commercial value during the transfer process
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Why choose us?
Moore Barlow is ranked among the UK’s leading law firms for commercial and technology law. What sets us apart is not just our legal expertise, but our commitment to understanding your business and delivering advice with clarity and precision. We’ve built long-standing relationships with innovative businesses across industries, from fast-growth tech start-ups to multinational enterprises.
Our IP team is consistently recognised in national legal directories such as Legal 500 and Chambers UK, and we’re known for our responsive, collaborative approach. With access to multi-disciplinary support from colleagues in corporate, commercial, regulatory and dispute resolution teams, we are ideally placed to deliver end-to-end IP solutions that reflect the broader needs of your business.
Contact us
If you are considering transferring intellectual property rights, or need advice on the legal implications of an assignment, speak to one of our specialist IP assignment solicitors today. We’re here to give you peace of mind and guide you through the process with confidence.
Contact our commercial and technology team by phone or via our online enquiry form to arrange an initial discussion.
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
Do IP assignments need to be in writing?
Yes. To be legally enforceable, any assignment of intellectual property rights must be documented in writing and signed by the assignor. In some cases, additional registration may be required to affect the legal transfer.
Can I assign only part of my IP rights?
Yes. It’s possible to assign a specific interest or geographic region of your IP rights. However, the assignment agreement must clearly define the scope of the rights being transferred.
What’s the difference between an assignment and a licence?
An assignment transfers ownership of IP rights to another party permanently, while a licence grants temporary or conditional rights to use the IP without changing ownership.
How long does it take to complete an IP assignment?
Timeframes vary depending on the complexity of the rights involved and the specifics of the transaction. We aim to provide efficient turnaround while ensuring every legal detail is covered.
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