Who has the rights to intellectual property?

 

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for expert advice on this topic, contact:
Laurie Heizler

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2. Who has the rights to intellectual property?

Subject to some exceptions the rights for new intellectual property generally belong to whoever creates it. Rights can be transferred to someone else (e.g. by selling them).

Intellectual property created in the course of employment by an employee generally belongs to the employer. However, it is best to clarify this by including it in your contract of employment. Similarly, if you use subcontractors - for example, to help develop new products or designs, or your website - ensure that the contracts clearly state who will own any intellectual property created.