Navigating Copyright Ownership
One of the most common legal issues we resolve involves confusion around copyright ownership. Just because you’ve commissioned a piece of work—or even paid for it—doesn’t automatically mean you own the copyright.
Take a business commissioning a web developer or a graphic designer, for example. Unless there’s a written agreement assigning copyright to your business, the creator may legally retain ownership. That can create issues later if you want to edit, republish, or license the content.
We help prevent those problems by ensuring your contracts and commercial arrangements reflect your intentions. Whether you need support drafting employment contracts, freelance agreements, or supplier terms, we’ll ensure copyright ownership is clearly set out from the start.
Copyright Infringement: Act Fast, Act Strategically
If someone’s copied your work, used it online without permission, or repackaged your content as their own, the damage can be both financial and reputational. We act quickly to protect your rights, stop further infringement, and, where appropriate, seek damages or settlements.
Often, the first step is a cease-and-desist letter or takedown notice, but we’re also prepared to escalate matters through litigation if needed. Where the infringement is cross-border, we work with our international network to pursue action across jurisdictions.
For a deeper dive into the process of stopping infringement and enforcing your rights, you can read more in our guide: UK Intellectual Property Rights: Infringement, Defence & Remedy
Copyright in Mergers, Acquisitions & Restructures
Copyright is often a hidden asset in company sales and restructures. Whether you’re selling a business, transferring assets between subsidiaries, or acquiring an IP-rich start-up, it’s essential to confirm what copyright exists and who owns it.
We help with IP due diligence, formal copyright assignments, and restructuring documentation that protects your legal position. Getting this right avoids nasty surprises during negotiations or post-deal disputes.
If you’re planning to move copyright between legal entities or groups, our article on How to Transfer Intellectual Property Between Companies covers what you need to know.
Making Copyright Work for You: Licensing & Commercialisation
Copyright isn’t just about protection, it’s also a commercial tool. You can license your work to others for a fee or royalty, generating long-term revenue while retaining control.
We draft and negotiate licensing agreements that balance flexibility with protection. Whether you’re licensing images to clients, software to users, or content to partners, we’ll make sure your legal position is secure, your commercial objectives are met, and your brand stays safe.
Who We Work With
We support creators, start-ups, digital agencies, developers, designers, content creators, architects, publishers, and in-house marketing teams. Whether you’re running a fast-growth tech business or launching a creative side project, we’ll help you put the right copyright structure in place from day one.
With our combined decades of experience across franchising law, corporate and business law, property litigation, and personal legal services; we are uniquely positioned to support you with any legal query you might have.
