ip assignment language

This intellectual property agreement  is between , an individual a(n) (the " Assignor ") and  , an individual a(n) (the " Assignee ").

The Assignor has full interest in the intellectual property listed in Exhibit A and described in section 1 below.

The Assignor wishes to transfer to the Assignee, and the Assignee wishes to purchase and receive from the Assignor, all of its interest in the Intellectual Property.

The parties therefore agree as follows:

1. ASSIGNMENT OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY.

The Assignor assigns to the Assignee, and the Assignee accepts the assignment of, all of the Assignor's interest in the following in the United States and its territories and throughout the world:

• (a) the intellectual property rights related to the intellectual property listed in Exhibit A ;
• (b) all precursors, portions, and works in progress with respect to that intellectual property and all inventions, works of authorship, mask works, technology, information, know-how, materials, and tools relating to those or to the development, support, or maintenance of those;
• (c) all copyrights, patent rights, trade dress, trade names, business names, other indicia of origin, trade secret rights, trademark rights, mask works rights, and all other intellectual property rights and all business, contract rights, and goodwill in, incorporated, or embodied in, used to develop, or related to any of those; and
• (d) the registrations and applications for registrations of the foregoing (collectively, the" Intellectual Property ").

2. PURCHASE PRICE.

The Assignee shall pay the Assignor a flat fee of $ as full payment for all rights granted under this agreement. The Assignee shall complete this payment no later than .

3. RECORDATION.  

In order to record this assignment with all relevant government agencies, within hours of the effective date of this assignment, the parties shall sign the form of intellectual property assignment agreement attached as Exhibit B . The is solely responsible for filing the assignment and paying any associated fees of the transfer.

4. NO EARLY ASSIGNMENT.

The Assignee shall not assign or otherwise encumber its interest in the Intellectual Property or any associated registrations until it has paid to the Assignor the full consideration provided for in this assignment. Any assignment or encumbrance contrary to this provision shall be void.

5. ASSIGNOR'S REPRESENTATIONS.

The Assignor hereby represents and warrants to the Assignee that it:

• (a) is the sole owner of all interest in the Intellectual Property;
• (b) has not transferred, exclusively licensed, or encumbered any Intellectual Property or agreed to do so;
• (c) is not aware of any violation, infringement, or misappropriation of any third party's rights (or any claim of those) by the Intellectual Property;
• (d) is not aware of any third-party consents, assignments, or licenses that are necessary to perform under this assignment;
• (e) was not acting within the scope of employment of any third party when conceiving, creating, or otherwise performing any activity with respect to any item of Intellectual Property.

The Assignor shall immediately notify the Assignee in writing if any facts or circumstances arise that would make any of the representations in this assignment inaccurate.

6. INDEMNIFICATION. The Assignor shall indemnify the Assignee against:

• (a) any claim by a third party that the Intellectual Property or its use, manufacture, sale, distribution, or reproduction infringes on or misappropriates any copyrights, trade secrets, patents, or other intellectual property;
• (b) any claim by a third party that this assignment conflicts with, violates, or breaches any contract, assignment, license, sublicense, security interest, encumbrance, or other obligation to which the Assignor is a party or of which it has knowledge;
• (c) any claim relating to any past, present, or future use, licensing, sublicensing, distribution, marketing, disclosure, or commercialization of any of the Intellectual Property by the Assignor; and
• (i) the Assignee promptly notifies the Assignor of that claim;
• (ii) the Assignor controls the defense and settlement of that claim;
• (iii) the Assignee fully cooperates with the Assignor in connection with its defense and settlement of that claim; and
• (iv) the Assignee stops all sales, distribution, and public use of the infringing Intellectual Property, if requested by the Assignor.
• (i) obtain the right for the Assignee to continue to use the infringing Intellectual Property;
• (ii) modify the infringing Intellectual Property to eliminate the infringement;
• (iii) provide substitute noninfringing intellectual property to the Assignee pursuant to this assignment; or
• (iv) refund to the Assignee the amount paid under this assignment for the infringing Intellectual Property.
• (c) No Other Obligations. The Assignor shall have no other obligations or liability if infringement occurs, and shall have no other obligation of indemnification or to defend relating to infringement. The Assignor shall not be liable for any costs or expenses incurred without its prior written authorization and shall have no obligation of indemnification or any liability if the infringement is based on (i) any modified form of the Intellectual Property not made by the Assignor, (ii) any finding or ruling after the effective date of this assignment, or (iii) the laws of any country other than the United States of America or its states.

7. GOVERNING LAW.

• (a) Choice of Law. The laws of the state of  govern this agreement (without giving effect to its conflicts of law principles).
• (b) Choice of Forum. Both parties consent to the personal jurisdiction of the state and federal courts in County, .

8. AMENDMENTS.

No amendment to this assignment will be effective unless it is in writing and signed by a party or its authorized representative.

9. ASSIGNMENT AND DELEGATION.

• (a) No Assignment. Neither party may assign any of its rights under this assignment, except with the prior written consent of the other party. All voluntary assignments of rights are limited by this subsection.
• (b) No Delegation. Neither party may delegate any performance under this assignment, except with the prior written consent of the other party.
• (c) Enforceability of an Assignment or Delegation. If a purported assignment or purported delegation is made in violation of this section, it is void.

10. COUNTERPARTS; ELECTRONIC SIGNATURES.

• (a) Counterparts. The parties may execute this assignment in any number of counterparts, each of which is an original but all of which constitute one and the same instrument.
• (b) Electronic Signatures. This assignment, agreements ancillary to this assignment, and related documents entered into in connection with this assignment are signed when a party's signature is delivered by facsimile, email, or other electronic medium. These signatures must be treated in all respects as having the same force and effect as original signatures.

11. SEVERABILITY.

If any one or more of the provisions contained in this assignment is, for any reason, held to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any respect, that invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability will not affect any other provisions of this assignment, but this assignment will be construed as if those invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provisions had never been contained in it, unless the deletion of those provisions would result in such a material change so as to cause completion of the transactions contemplated by this assignment to be unreasonable.

12. NOTICES.

• (a) Writing; Permitted Delivery Methods. Each party giving or making any notice, request, demand, or other communication required or permitted by this agreement shall give that notice in writing and use one of the following types of delivery, each of which is a writing for purposes of this agreement: personal delivery, mail (registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, return-receipt requested), nationally recognized overnight courier (fees prepaid), facsimile, or email.
• (b) Addresses. A party shall address notices under this section to a party at the following addresses:
• If to the Assignor: 
• If to the Assignee: 
• (c) Effectiveness. A notice is effective only if the party giving notice complies with subsections (a) and (b) and if the recipient receives the notice.

13. WAIVER.

No waiver of a breach, failure of any condition, or any right or remedy contained in or granted by the provisions of this assignment will be effective unless it is in writing and signed by the party waiving the breach, failure, right, or remedy. No waiver of any breach, failure, right, or remedy will be deemed a waiver of any other breach, failure, right, or remedy, whether or not similar, and no waiver will constitute a continuing waiver, unless the writing so specifies.

14. ENTIRE AGREEMENT.

This assignment constitutes the final agreement of the parties. It is the complete and exclusive expression of the parties' agreement about the subject matter of this assignment. All prior and contemporaneous communications, negotiations, and agreements between the parties relating to the subject matter of this assignment are expressly merged into and superseded by this assignment. The provisions of this assignment may not be explained, supplemented, or qualified by evidence of trade usage or a prior course of dealings. Neither party was induced to enter this assignment by, and neither party is relying on, any statement, representation, warranty, or agreement of the other party except those set forth expressly in this assignment. Except as set forth expressly in this assignment, there are no conditions precedent to this assignment's effectiveness.

15. HEADINGS.

The descriptive headings of the sections and subsections of this assignment are for convenience only, and do not affect this assignment's construction or interpretation.

16. EFFECTIVENESS.

This assignment will become effective when all parties have signed it. The date this assignment is signed by the last party to sign it (as indicated by the date associated with that party's signature) will be deemed the date of this assignment.

17. NECESSARY ACTS; FURTHER ASSURANCES.

Each party shall use all reasonable efforts to take, or cause to betaken, all actions necessary or desirable to consummate and make effective the transactions this assignment contemplates or to evidence or carry out the intent and purposes of this assignment.

[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]

Each party is signing this agreement on the date stated opposite that party's signature. 

[PAGE BREAK HERE] EXHIBIT A LIST OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

[PAGE BREAK HERE] EXHIBIT B FORM OF RECORDABLE INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY ASSIGNMENT For good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, an individual a(n) (the " Assignor ") hereby assigns to an individual a(n) (the " Assignee ") all of the Assignor's interest in the Intellectual Property identified in Attachment A to this assignment, and the Assignee accepts this assignment.

Each party is signing this agreement on the date stated opposite that party's signature.

[PAGE BREAK HERE]

ATTACHMENT A INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Free Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement Template

Safeguard the sale or purchase of assets with an intellectual property assignment agreement. transfer the ownership of patents, trademarks, software, and other critical assets easily..

Complete your document with ease

How-to guides, articles, and any other content appearing on this page are for informational purposes only, do not constitute legal advice, and are no substitute for the advice of an attorney.

Intellectual property assignment agreement: How-to guide

In the dynamic realm of commerce and innovation, the notion of property extends far beyond physical boundaries. Just as one might transfer ownership of a house or a car, the exchange of intellectual property (IP) rights is a critical component of modern business transactions. For instance, if you're launching a startup, acquiring product rights, or even purchasing an entire company, in each scenario, the seamless transfer of intellectual property ownership is essential for ensuring a smooth transition and protecting your interests.

So what constitutes intellectual property? Intellectual property encompasses creations of the mind, such as inventions, software, and hardware programs, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images. As businesses grow and evolve, the need to manage and protect these valuable assets becomes increasingly important. One crucial aspect of managing intellectual property is through intellectual property assignment agreement, otherwise known as IP assignment agreement. These agreements facilitate the transfer of IP rights from one part to another.

In this article, we’ll explore the nuances of intellectual property assignment agreements, including their definitions, benefits, types, and considerations.

What is an intellectual property assignment agreement?

An intellectual property assignment agreement, also known as an IP assignment agreement, is a written contract that transfers intellectual property rights from one party (the assignor) to another (the assignee). Intellectual property covers a broad spectrum of intangible assets, including patents, copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, and more.

For instance, a software developer might have created a groundbreaking algorithm while employed at the company. Through an IP assignment agreement, the developer transfers the rights to this algorithm to the employer, ensuring that the company has exclusive ownership and control over its use and commercialization.

Benefits of IP assignment agreement

IP assignment agreements are crucial in a company’s business and provide multiple benefits for the assignor and assignee.

Clear ownership

By executing an IP assignment agreement, the assignor unequivocally transfers all rights and interests in the intellectual property to the assignee. This clarity of ownership and proprietary rights helps to avoid disputes and potential litigation over the ownership of the IP in the future.

Legal protection

By formally transferring the IP rights through a written agreement, both parties are legally protected. This protection can be essential in case of any infringement or misuse of intellectual property.

Assured compensation or price guarantee

When transferring IP ownership rights for patents, trademarks, copyrights, etc., the original owner gets compensated by the party buying the ownership. The buyer will also pay the IP owner an agreed-upon price for the IP, which will be paid on the date as decided by the involved parties. 

No future obligations

The party selling the IP won’t be responsible for meeting any future obligations. For instance, if there is an existing trademark that requires constant monitoring to know whether the trademark is used by any other competitors, the seller won't bear the charges incurred for  trademark monitoring . The buyer has to bear these and any future trademark maintenance costs.

Commercialization opportunities

Assigning intellectual property rights can enable businesses to commercialize the intellectual property more effectively. This could involve licensing the IP to third parties, selling it outright, or using it as collateral for financing.

Facilitates collaboration

In cases where multiple parties are involved in creating intellectual property, an assignment agreement can facilitate collaboration by clearly defining each party's rights and responsibilities.

Risk mitigation

For businesses acquiring ownership rights to intellectual property, an assignment agreement mitigates the risk of third parties claiming rights to the IP. It provides a legal basis for defending against infringement claims and protects the assignee's investment in the IP.

Enhanced value

Clear ownership of intellectual property assets can enhance the value of a business, especially during mergers, acquisitions, or fundraising activities. Investors and stakeholders are more likely to perceive a business positively when it has secure ownership of valuable IP assets. For example, let’s say your start-up company holds sole intellectual property rights to an automatic house-locking system. When your company gets acquired by another company, the new company will also evaluate the value of the IP owned.

Understanding IP assignment agreements: Considerations for sellers

While intellectual property assignment agreements offer various benefits, as a seller of the IP you need to keep in mind what it entails for you when you sell your IP.

Choosing between an IP assignment and a licensing agreement

In an IP assignment agreement, the seller transfers all ownership rights to the intellectual property for a predetermined fee. Here the seller gets a fair market value for their IP as a one-time payment. However, if they had opted for an  IP licensing arrangement , they could have retained the ownership of their IP while giving certain usage rights to the interested party. For instance, let’s say you have written and composed a song. A music company wants your song under their label. Here you have two options. You can sell your song completely to the music label, where they’ll have the right to use or alter your song as they deem fit. Or you can license your creation for an agreed-upon fee or price and set the terms and conditions for using your song. Here you’re getting paid for your creation while retaining ownership of your creation. Whichever option works best for you can be opted and respective agreements can be drawn.  

Value uncertainty

The value of intellectual property can fluctuate over time due to changes in market demand, technological advancements, or legal developments. Sometimes an intellectual property’s future value can increase tremendously, impacting the fairness of the negotiated price. Hence, while deciding the price of such assets, the seller should calculate the future valuation and decide the price of IP.

Limited future opportunities

Once intellectual property rights are assigned, the assignor may be restricted from using or further developing the intellectual property in the future. This limitation could hinder the assignor's ability to explore new business ventures or pivot their existing strategies.

In conclusion, while an intellectual property assignment agreement offers significant benefits in terms of clarity, protection, and commercialization of intellectual property assets, parties must carefully weigh these advantages against the limitations. Consulting with legal professionals experienced in intellectual property law is essential to navigate these considerations effectively.

What are the types of IP assignment agreements?

Intellectual property assignment agreements are comprehensive in nature, outlining the terms and conditions under which the transfer of IP ownership occurs. Here's an overview of the types of IP assignment agreements:

Patent assignment agreement or assignment of patents

A  patent assignment agreement is a written agreement whereby the owner of a patent transfers or assigns their ownership rights to the other party. This agreement ensures that the assignee gains full legal rights to the patent, including the right to exclude others from making, using, or selling the patented invention, innovations, and processes. Patent assignment agreements typically include details about the patented invention, including patent numbers, descriptions, and any related rights or obligations. 

Copyright assignment agreement or assignment of copyrights

Copyright assignment agreements transfer ownership of creative works, such as literary works, music, art, and other creative expressions. By signing a copyright assignment agreement, the creator relinquishes their rights to reproduce, distribute, and display the copyrighted work to the assignee.

Trademark assignment agreement or assignment of trademarks

Trademark assignment agreements transfer ownership of trademarks, which are used to identify and distinguish goods or services in the marketplace. Through this agreement, the assignor relinquishes their exclusive rights to use the trademark in commerce, allowing the assignee to use and enforce the mark for their business or products.

Trade secret assignment agreement or assignment of trade secrets

Trade secret assignment agreements are used to transfer ownership of confidential information or trade secrets from one party to another. These agreements outline the specific trade secrets being transferred and impose obligations of confidentiality on the assignee to protect the secrecy of the information. 

By signing such an agreement, the assignee gains the rights to use and protect the trade secrets for their own benefit. It can be any proprietary information like formulas, processes, customer lists, and business strategies. These agreements typically include provisions to maintain confidentiality and prevent unauthorized disclosure or use of trade secrets.

Design assignment agreement or assignment of design

An assignment of design agreement involves the transfer of ownership rights related to industrial designs or product designs. It ensures that the assignee gains exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, and modify the design according to their business needs. This agreement is crucial for companies involved in product development and manufacturing.

Employee or contractor IP assignment agreement

These agreements transfer ownership of intellectual property created by employees or contractors during their employment or engagement. They are essential for employers to secure ownership of IP developed by their personnel. They often include provisions related to confidentiality, non-competition, and non-disclosure, which are mostly included in an employment agreement. Sometimes, employers even ask employees to sign separate non-disclosure agreements whenever an employee comes up with an invention.  

Assignment of IP in a joint venture  

In cases where multiple parties jointly create intellectual property, a joint ownership agreement may establish each party's rights and responsibilities. These agreements detail the terms of joint ownership, including each party's share of the IP, decision-making authority, and rights to exploit the IP.

It's essential to choose the appropriate type of IP assignment agreement based on the specific intellectual property rights being transferred and the circumstances of the transaction. Consulting with legal professionals knowledgeable in intellectual property law can help ensure that the agreement adequately protects the interests of all parties involved.

Who uses intellectual property assignment agreements?

IP assignment agreements are utilized across a spectrum of industries and scenarios. These agreements are crucial tools for businesses and individuals seeking to define and transfer intellectual property rights.

Corporations and businesses

Employment agreement : Companies frequently incorporate IP assignment clauses into their employment contracts. This ensures that any intellectual property created by employees during the course of their employment is automatically assigned to the company.

Consulting agreement : Similar to employment agreements, consulting contracts may include provisions requiring consultants to transfer any intellectual property they develop while working for the company.

Transactions contemplated : In mergers, acquisitions, or other business transactions, IP assignment agreements are employed to transfer ownership of intellectual property assets between parties.

Joint ventures : Partners in joint ventures often use these agreements to clarify ownership rights and facilitate the sharing or licensing of intellectual property developed during the collaboration.

Individuals and inventors

Prior inventions : An individual with a prior invention may use IP assignment agreements to transfer ownership rights to a new employer or business partner.

Consultants and contractors : Freelancers, consultants, and independent contractors may be required to sign an IP or invention assignment agreement as part of their contractual arrangement with clients.

Startups : Startup founders commonly use these agreements to consolidate ownership of intellectual property created before or during the company's establishment.

In essence, assignment agreements are utilized by parties across various sectors and contexts to facilitate the transfer of valuable intellectual property rights, ensuring legal protection and compliance while fostering innovation and business growth.

Key provisions of an intellectual property assignment agreement

Introduction.

Begin the agreement by formally introducing the parties involved to the agreement. In an intellectual property assignment agreement, the party selling the IP is called the “assignor,” and the other party who buys it is called the “assignee.” Here, along with providing the details of the intellectual property, the assignor explicitly agrees to transfer intellectual property rights to the assignee according to the agreed-upon terms of the agreement.

Assignment of IP

This section specifies the intellectual property being transferred. It identifies the specific patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, or other intellectual property referenced in the agreement. Additionally, it outlines the scope of the transfer and any limitations on the assigned IP rights.

Purchase price

The agreement details any monetary compensation involved in the transfer of intellectual property rights. In this section, clearly outline the payment terms of the agreement. Detail whether the parties hereto agree to pay the assignor as a lump sum or in installments. If the payment is made in installments, you must also provide the schedule for such payment.

Recordation

To formalize the transfer of intellectual property rights, recordation with relevant authorities may be necessary. This provision addresses the requirement and process for recording the assignment with the appropriate governmental authority, ensuring compliance with legal formalities. 

No early assignment

This clause states that the assignment of IP rights cannot occur before certain conditions are met, such as before the completion of a project or the fulfillment of payment obligations. This section prevents premature transfers of IP.

Assignor’s representations

In this part, the assignor provides assurance that they have the sole right to the IP created and it hasn’t been licensed to any third-parties. They also affirm that they have the legal authority to transfer ownership of the IP and there are no undisclosed encumbrances or infringements.

Indemnification

This provision outlines the parties' obligations to indemnify each other against any losses, damages, or liabilities arising from a breach of the agreement or the assertion of third-party claims related to the transferred IP.

Governing law

This section specifies the jurisdiction whose laws will govern and interpret the agreement. It provides clarity in the event of legal disputes.

This clause outlines the procedures for making changes or modifications to the intellectual property assignment agreement. To make any changes pertaining to the terms of the agreement requires written consent from both parties.

Assignment and delegation

This provision addresses the transferability of rights and obligations under the IP assignment agreement. They stipulate whether parties can assign their rights or delegate their duties to third parties.

Counterparts; electronic signatures

This section permits the IP assignment agreement to be executed in multiple counterparts, facilitating convenience in signing. It also recognizes the legal validity of electronic signatures, ensuring compliance with modern technological practices.

Severability

The severability clause states that if any provision of the agreement is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions will remain in full force and effect. This ensures that the invalidity of one provision does not invalidate the entire agreement.

This provision details the methods and addresses for official communication between the parties regarding the intellectual property assignment agreement. They ensure that important correspondence is properly delivered and acknowledged.

Waiver provision addresses instances where a party chooses not to enforce its rights under the agreement. For instance, if certain provisions are waived off on a one-time basis regarding the agreement, this doesn’t mean that the provision is waived for the entire term of the agreement. Take the case where the assignee is paying for the IP in installments. If the assignee is not able to pay the installment for a month, then the assignor can waive that default and continue the agreement upon prior written consent.

Entire agreement

This part of an intellectual property assignment agreement explains that the parties agree to the specific terms and conditions mentioned in the agreement. Any verbal negotiations or other terms that are even stated via email or otherwise are not part of this agreement.

This section states that the headings used in the agreement are for convenience only and do not affect the interpretation of the provisions.

Effectiveness

The effectiveness provision specifies the date on which the agreement becomes effective. This ensures clarity regarding when the rights and obligations outlined in the agreement take effect.

Necessary acts; further assurances

Requires the parties to take any additional actions necessary to carry out the terms of the agreement fully. This may include signing additional documents or cooperating with each other as needed.

How does an online template facilitate drafting intellectual property assignment agreements?

There are various advantages of using an online template for IP such as.

Simplified drafting process

Online templates streamline the drafting process of IP assignment agreements. By providing a structured framework, these templates guide users through the essential elements required for such agreements. Users can efficiently input pertinent details specific to their arrangement, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the subject matter assigned.

Ease of customization

Some  online template providers, like LegalZoom , allow you to easily customize the templates to suit specific circumstances. With editing options available, users can modify clauses and provisions to reflect their agreed-upon terms and conditions of the arrangement

Clarity and consistency

These templates offer clear and standardized language, enhancing understanding and minimizing ambiguity. Consistent formatting and terminology throughout the agreement contribute to its readability and effectiveness.

Time and cost efficiency

Utilizing an online template can minimize the need for extensive document research and costly legal consultations. It allows parties to draft a comprehensive IP assignment agreement efficiently and affordably, saving valuable time and resources.

Accessibility and convenience

Online templates are readily accessible from anywhere with an internet connection, enabling parties to initiate and complete the drafting process conveniently. This accessibility promotes collaboration and facilitates the timely execution of agreements.

As you can see, using online templates provides numerous benefits. Since there are a multitude of templates available online, choosing the right template is key. To streamline this process, LegalZoom offers a comprehensive intellectual property assignment agreement template that is simple and easy to use. Just answer the guided questions, complete the form, and download the document for free.

Frequently asked questions

What's an intellectual property assignment agreement.

When your business needs to sell or buy intangible assets, use an intellectual property assignment agreement to protect both parties. It enables the transfer of ownership of intangible items legally. Intellectual property includes everything from patents to trademarks to software and more.

What key details are required to complete your assignment agreement?

Here's the information you'll need to complete your intellectual property assignment agreement:

• Who owns the intellectual property : Keep the information of the assignor ready while drafting your agreements 
• Who's buying the intellectual property : Have the name and contact details of the assignee ready
• How much it costs : Know what the buyer pays for the intellectual property

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Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement: A Comprehensive Guide for Your Business

LegalGPS : May 21, 2024 at 12:30 PM

Hello there, entrepreneur friend! Today let’s have that coffee chat about Intellectual Property Assignment Agreements. If you're thinking "what's that?" or "why do I need it?" then this is the perfect starting point for you. In today's competitive business world, protecting your intellectual property (IP) is more crucial than ever.

Table of Contents

Defining the purpose.

• Clarity of Transfer
• Definition of Transferred Intellectual Property
• Compensation and Payment Terms
• Warranties and Representations
• Confidentiality Agreements
• Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

Step 1 - Identify the Parties Involved

Step 2 - specify the assigned intellectual property, step 3 - describe the transfer of rights, step 4 - detail compensation and payment terms, step 5 - include confidentiality clauses, step 6 - determine governing law and dispute resolution process, tips for avoiding common mistakes and pitfalls.

What is An Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement?

An Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement is a legal document that ensures the transfer of an inventor or creator's rights to another person or company. Essentially, it’s a legal way of saying "what’s mine is now yours". These agreements are often used in situations involving startups, company buyouts, or employees creating new works or inventions during their jobs - situations a lot of entrepreneurs find themselves in.

Let's break that down a touch more:

The IP assignment agreement's primary purpose is to help your business prevent future disputes regarding IP ownership. When all parties are clear on who owns the intellectual property, it prevents a whole host of potential issues.

Believe me, the last thing you need or want as an entrepreneur is a legal dispute over who owns an idea, an invention, or any creative output.

And that's where this agreement steps in: it provides legal proof that the ownership has been transferred. So, if ever challenged, you can show the agreement and say "See, it’s mine!" .

Key Elements to Consider for a Properly Drafted Agreement

When it comes to IP assignment agreements, not just any generic contract will do. It's crucial to understand and include some key elements to ensure you're fully protected.

1. Clarity of Transfer

The agreement must clearly define the scope and extent of the transferred rights. To do this, use precise language that leaves no room for confusion. For example, specify whether the IP rights being transferred are exclusive or non-exclusive and if there are any limitations on how the Assignee can use or sublicense the IP. Here's a suggested format:

"The Assignor hereby assigns to the Assignee, its successors and assigns, [exclusive/non-exclusive] rights, title, and interest in and to the Intellectual Property, subject to the following limitations [if any]:"

2. Definition of Transferred Intellectual Property

This section is where you identify the specific Intellectual Property being assigned. Start by describing the IP type (e.g., copyright, patent, trademark), then provide the necessary details:

For a copyright, include the work title and a brief description.

For a patent, mention the patent number and summarize the invention.

For a trademark, provide the trademark name, registration number, and design details.

Remember, the key is to be as detailed and transparent as possible.

3. Compensation and Payment Terms

Just as with any deal, it's important to be crystal clear about the compensation for transferring IP rights. Make sure you consider the following in your agreement:

The total amount payable

The currency

The payment method (e.g., check, wire transfer)

The payment schedule (e.g., lump-sum, installments)

For example: "In consideration for the assignment of rights, the Assignee shall pay the Assignor a total sum of [Amount] in [Currency], through [Payment Method], payable as follows:"

4. Warranties and Representations

Including warranties and representations in the agreement helps provide confidence to both parties. The Assignor should explicitly declare that they:

Are the sole and true owner of the IP

Have the complete right to assign the IP to the Assignee

The IP does not infringe on any third-party rights

A sample clause might look like this:

"The Assignor warrants and represents that they are the true and lawful owner of the Intellectual Property, have full right and authority to enter into this Agreement, and that the Intellectual Property does not infringe upon any third-party rights."

5. Confidentiality Agreements

A crucial aspect of a well-drafted IP Assignment Agreement is protecting sensitive information about the business and the IP itself. Incorporate confidentiality clauses to maintain a secure environment.

Try a clause similar to this one: "The parties agree to treat all confidential information related to this Agreement as strictly confidential, and to take all necessary precautions to prevent unauthorized disclosure or use of such information."

6. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

Last but not least, outline which jurisdiction's laws will govern the agreement. Furthermore, state how any disputes will be resolved, such as through arbitration, mediation, or litigation.

A model clause could be: "This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of [State]. Any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall be resolved by [method of dispute resolution]."

Drafting Your IP Assignment Agreement

Let's move on to the most crucial part of our discussion: Creating your Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement. This section intends to make it much clearer and more action-oriented. Your aim? To walk away with enough information to begin drafting your agreement. Let's dive in.

Start by clearly naming the parties involved in the agreement.

Who is the 'Assignor' (the party transferring the rights)?

Who is the 'Assignee' (the individual or business entity receiving the rights)? Clearly outline their legal names and any other relevant identifying information, like addresses or official business names. It would typically look like this: "[Full Legal Name], referred to as the "Assignor," and [Full Legal Name], referred to as the "Assignee."

Here, you need to provide a full and exhaustive description of the intellectual property being transferred. Please don't leave room for vagueness or ambiguity - the more specific, the better. For instance, if it's a patent, include the patent number and a detailed summary of what the patent covers. If it's a copyrighted work, offer the title, the form of the work (e.g., a book, software, music), and a short description of it.

Your entry here might read: "The "Intellectual Property" includes, but is not limited to, [detailed description]."

This section is all about clearly laying out what you're giving up and what you're gaining. Highlight all rights, titles, and interests being assigned from the Assignor to the Assignee. You could list them out just to ensure nothing falls between the cracks.

It’s vital to be as clear and detailed as possible here. You're specifying the extent of the rights transferred. It could be exclusive, non-exclusive, permanent, temporary, how it can be used, if it can be sold, and more.

Here's an example:

"The Assignor hereby assigns to the Assignee, its successors and assigns, all rights, title, and interest in and to the Intellectual Property, including, without limitation, the right to sue and recover for past, present, and future violations."

Now, let's talk about money. In this step, you need to fully detail the financial exchanges. Include the amount of payment, payment format, and schedule (upfront, lump sum, installments). It wouldn't hurt to clearly lay out what conditions, if any, would lead to a return of the compensation.

This clause might look something like:

"For the assignment of rights under this Agreement, the Assignee shall provide compensation to the Assignor in the amount of [Amount], payable [insert payment method and schedule]".

Especially with IP, you'll want to build in some safety nets. You can include a confidentiality clause that prevents the involved parties from disclosing sensitive information about the IP.

A basic confidentiality clause may read: "The Assignor agrees to keep confidential all non-public information that the Assignee designates as being confidential, not to disclose it to any other people, and not to use it for any purpose other than the discharge of the Assignor's obligations under this Agreement."

Finally, specify which state or country's laws will govern the agreement. This is crucial in the case of any future legal disputes. Additionally, include how disputes over the agreement will be resolved - arbitration, mediation, litigation, etc.

Here is an example:

"This Agreement will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of [State]. Any disputes under this Agreement shall be resolved by [method of dispute resolution]."

You're now equipped with all you need to draft an agreement. But before you get started, here are some quick tips to avoid any missteps:

Ensure the agreement is detailed and described correctly

Work with a knowledgeable attorney

Review the final agreement carefully before signing

With these, you're set to protect your business's most valuable assets!

In today's competitive business environment, it's imperative to protect your inventions, your creations - your Intellectual Property. If you're still unsure where to start, check out our professional template for Intellectual Property Assignments!

With an Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement in hand, you're ensuring that ownership of these is well established to prevent future disputes. So here's to smoother operations and peace of mind!

Always remember, we're in this together - as you navigate the business world, consider us your legal co-pilot, happy to guide you on your journey.

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Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement (Short Form) | Practical Law

Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement (Short Form)

Practical law standard document 1-385-2746  (approx. 18 pages).

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Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement

Nov 2, 2022

An intellectual property assignment agreement is an agreement to transfer intellectual property from one person or company to another.

What is an Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement?

An intellectual property assignment agreement is an agreement to transfer intellectual property from one person or company to another. The agreement may also be referred to as an intellectual property transfer agreement, an IP assignment agreement or an IP transfer agreement.

When should you use an Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement?

An intellectual property assignment agreement should be used whenever transferring the rights in intellectual property ( IP ). There are a number of situations where you may need to do this. The most common for SMEs is where an individual has done work for a company as a consultant without using a consultancy agreement with the result that the consultant and not the company, owns the IP in the work. It is also necessary to transfer IP where founders create IP before incorporating or being employed by a company and, as a result, title to the IP vests in the founder.  

Why is an Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement important and why should you use it?

Investors in early stage companies will often require the company and key employees to give warranties confirming that the company owns all material IP used by the company. Any IP not owned by the company will need to be transferred to the company before the investment is completed. Failing to transfer the IP can materially impact the valuation of the company or, in extreme cases, lead investors to pull out of the transaction.

It is necessary to use a written agreement for an assignment of certain types of IP (such as copyright) to be effective. Further, it is important to ensure that the agreement is an enforceable contract. For the contract to be enforceable there must be some form of consideration paid in exchange for the IP. The amount of consideration payable will depend on the situation in which the IP is being transferred. If a consultant or founder is transferring IP that should have been owned by the company, the consideration should be a nominal amount, e.g. £1, which is deemed to have been received by the assignor (note that some form of consideration is required for the agreement to be an enforceable contract). The IP can, however, be transferred for valuable consideration or as part of an asset sale.

An IP assignment will also include warranties to confirm that the assignor is the owner of the intellectual property being transferred and that the assignor has the right to transfer the intellectual property. Transferring intellectual property without these assurances means that your company will have limited or no recourse should it transpire that the assignor did not own or have the right to transfer the intellectual property.

What are the common pitfalls of an Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement?

Where possible, it is important to clearly describe the IP being transferred. IP by its nature is not physical so failing to accurately describe the IP can result in disputes about what has been transferred. 

Further, there are several different types of IP (copyright, patents, trade marks and designs). Certain IP rights can also be registered. Depending on what is being transferred it may be necessary to take additional steps to perfect the transfer (for example notifying the appropriate register of the transfer). The agreement should include a requirement that the assignor takes the necessary steps to perfect the transfer and specify which party is required to pay any associated costs (such as registration fees).

In addition where copyright is being transferred, the assignor should also ensure that the assignor waives their moral rights (such as the right to attribution) in respect of the copyrighted work.

Disclaimer: Please note: Pocketlaw is not a substitute for an attorney or law firm. So, should you have any legal questions on the content of this page, please get in touch with a qualified legal professional.

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Assignment Of Intellectual Property Agreement

Jump to section, what is an assignment of intellectual property agreement.

An assignment of intellectual property agreement is a contract that transfers the intellectual property rights (For example, patents, trademarks, industrial designs, or copyrights.) from the creator to another entity. The intellectual property rights holder may transfer all or part of their rights. The transfer of intellectual property rights is made upon a payment of a lump sum or royalties.

Employees hired for research and development roles or other technical areas sign intellectual property assignment agreements to assign to the company any ideas, work products, or inventions related to the company business that they may create during their employment.

Common Sections in Assignment Of Intellectual Property Agreements

Below is a list of common sections included in Assignment Of Intellectual Property Agreements. These sections are linked to the below sample agreement for you to explore.

Assignment Of Intellectual Property Agreement Sample

Reference : Security Exchange Commission - Edgar Database, EX-10.2 5 gabriel_ex1002.htm ASSIGNMENT OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY , Viewed October 21, 2021, View Source on SEC .

Who Helps With Assignment Of Intellectual Property Agreements?

Lawyers with backgrounds working on assignment of intellectual property agreements work with clients to help. Do you need help with an assignment of intellectual property agreement?

Post a project  in ContractsCounsel's marketplace to get free bids from lawyers to draft, review, or negotiate assignment of intellectual property agreements. All lawyers are vetted by our team and peer reviewed by our customers for you to explore before hiring.

ContractsCounsel is not a law firm, and this post should not be considered and does not contain legal advice. To ensure the information and advice in this post are correct, sufficient, and appropriate for your situation, please consult a licensed attorney. Also, using or accessing ContractsCounsel's site does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and ContractsCounsel.

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G'day, my name is Michele! I work with startups, entrepreneurs and small/medium-sized businesses across the country in a wide array of industries. I help them with all of their ongoing, daily legal needs. This includes entity formation, M&A, contract drafting and review, employment, asset sale & acquisition, and business sales or shareholder exits. I'm half-Australian, half-Italian, and I've lived the last 20+ years of my life in America. I've lived all over the USA, completing high school in the deep south, graduating cum laude from Washington University in St. Louis, and then cum laude from Georgetown University Law Center. After law school I worked for the Los Angeles office of Latham & Watkins, LLP. After four intense and rewarding years there, I left to become General Counsel and VP of an incredible, industry-changing start-up called Urban Mining Company (UMC) that manufactures rare earth permanent magnets. I now work for Phocus Law where I help run our practice focused on entrepreneurs, startups, and SMEs. I love what I do, and I'd love to be of help! My focus is on providing stress-free, enjoyable, and high-quality legal service to all of my clients. Being a good lawyer isn't enough: the client experience should also be great. But work isn't everything, and I love my free time. I've been an avid traveler since my parents put me on a plane to Italy at 9-months old. I'm also a music nut, and am still looking for that perfect client that will engage me to explain why Dark Side Of The Moon is the greatest album of all time. Having grown up in a remote, and gorgeous corner of Australia, I feel a strong connection to nature, and love being in the elements.

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Intellectual Property Agreements: Assigning and Licensing Your IP

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What to Watch for When You Assign IP

Things you need to consider when you license ip, don't forget that scale is irrelevant.

This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Rocket Lawyer is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer .

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IP Assignment and Licensing

IP rights have essentially transformed intangibles (knowledge, creativity) into valuable assets that you can put to strategic use in your business. You can do this by directly integrating the IP in the production or marketing of your products and services, thereby strengthening their competitiveness. With IP assignement and IP licensing, IP owners can also use your IP rights to create additional revenue streams by selling them out, giving others a permission to use them, and establishing joint ventures or other collaboration agreements with others who have complementary assets.

  Expert tip: Assignment, license and franchising agreements are flexible documents that can be adapted to the needs of the parties. Nevertheless, most countries establish specific requirements for these agreements, e.g. written form, registration with a national IP office or other authority, etc. For more information, consult your IP office .

IP rights assignment

You can sell your IP asset to another person or legal entity.

When all the exclusive rights to a patented invention, registered trademark, design or copyrighted work are transferred by the owner to another person or legal entity, it is said that an assignment of such rights has taken place.

Assignment is the sale of an IP asset. It means that you transfer ownership of an IP asset to another person or legal entity.

IP for Business Guides

Learn more about the commercialization of patents, trademarks, industrial designs, copyright.

Read IP for Business Guides

IP licensing

You can authorize someone else to use your IP, while maintaining your ownership, by granting a license in exchange for something of value, such as a monetary lump sum, recurrent payments (royalties), or a combination of these.

Licensing provides you with the valuable opportunity to expand into new markets, add revenue streams through royalties, develop partnerships etc.

If you own a patent, know-how, or other IP assets, but cannot or do not want to be involved in all the commercialization activities (e.g. technology development, manufacturing, market expansion, etc.) you can benefit from the licensing of your IP assets by relying on the capacity, know-how, and management expertise of your partner.

  Expert tip: Licensing can generally be sole, exclusive or non-exclusive, depending on whether the IP owner retains some rights, or on whether the IP rights can be licensed to one or multiple parties.

Technology licensing agreements

Trademark licensing agreements, copyright licensing agreements, franchising agreements, merchande licensing, joint venture agreements, find out more.

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Intellectual property (IP) assignment agreement: Sample template for Ontario startups

In a technology business, it is often the value of the intellectual property (IP) assets that the investor finances or the purchaser pays for. It is critical to have “clean” ownership of any intellectual property that is critical to the operation and success of your business. If your products and services depend on certain key IP assets, an investor will undertake due diligence to understand your right to use such assets.

An intellectual property assignment agreement provides assurance to investors that the founders have legally transferred to the company the intellectual property required to run the business.

Make sure to engage qualified IP counsel at a very early stage of your business to ensure that you have the freedom to operate your business with your inventions and to make certain that your business can meet the due diligence requirements of investors. MaRS has created a sample template of an intellectual property assignment agreement to help streamline business for investors, founders and their respective legal advisors. While MaRS makes this document available for educational purposes and to facilitate the negotiation of terms between investors and startups, the template is yours to use at your own risk . Please see the disclaimer below.

Download the Sample intellectual property assignment template

Read next: Sample funding templates for Ontario investors and entrepreneurs

This sample legal document has been made available by MaRS Discovery District for informational purposes only and does not constitute advertising, a solicitation, or legal advice. Neither the transmission of this sample legal document nor the transmission of any information contained in this website is intended to create, and receipt hereof or thereof does not constitute formation of, a lawyer-client relationship. Internet subscribers and online readers should not rely upon this sample legal document or the information contained in this website for any purpose without seeking legal advice from a qualified lawyer practicing in the reader’s province.

The information contained in this website is provided only as general information and may or may not reflect the most current legal developments; accordingly, information on this website is not promised or guaranteed to be correct or complete. MaRS Discovery District expressly disclaims all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all the contents of this website.

Check out Ontario’s IP Ecosystem Map ! Our partners at IPON designed this tool to help guide Ontario innovators & researchers on their IP journey. It’s an interactive PDF with info on IP service providers across Ontario.

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Five Tips for Transfer of IP Rights From Employees to Employers

September 11, 2015.

A continuing challenge for companies in the United States is securing the intellectual property rights—and particularly rights to patentable inventions—developed by their employees.

The presumptive owner of a patentable invention generally is the human inventor; the company, despite employing the inventor, does not own the invention simply because of the employment relationship. In most cases, the inventor must transfer ownership of the invention to the company for the company to take title to the intellectual property. If the transfer or assignment agreement is incomplete, vague or uses language addressing future intent, the agreement or relationship may become problematic at the time a related patent is sold or asserted. This article provides several best practices for ensuring that an employee’s rights in a patentable invention are appropriately transferred to the company-employer.

Generally, the lack of an express assignment agreement from an employee to the company-employer may lead to the company not owning an invention made by its employee. This may occur even when the employee creates a patentable invention on the employer’s time using the employer’s resources. Absent an express assignment, the employer has only a “shop right.” A shop right is a nonexclusive, nontransferable, royalty-free license to use the invention. The employee-inventor remains able to license the invention to others, and, in a worst case, competitors of the employer.

An additional problem if invention rights are not transferred is that the company may lack prudential standing necessary to sue for patent infringement (assuming the invention is patented). Ownership (or an exclusive license) of a patent is a prerequisite to assert the patent. A lack of ownership forecloses a plaintiff’s ability to assert a patent. Correcting a lack of ownership after litigation commences is difficult; in many cases, the defect may lead to dismissal of the lawsuit. Further, the defendant may file a declaratory judgment action in a more favorable venue.

A company should use express intellectual property assignment agreements with its employees to avoid (or reduce) disputes about ownership. As part of an agreement, the employee assigns to the employer inventions conceived or made during employment.

Following are five tips companies can use to help make these assignment agreements more effective.

1. Use language effecting a present assignment instead of a promise to assign rights in the future.

The assignment clause should use present-assignment language. An example of commonly used present-assignment language is “I hereby assign …” As confirmed by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Preston v. Marathon Oil (2012), this language transfers rights in an invention from the employee-inventor to the employer when the invention is made. A promise to assign in the future (e.g., “I agree to assign”), does not immediately transfer right to the invention. Future assignment language may require the company and employee to execute another assignment agreement to expressly transfer the invention. Completing an assignment after the invention is known (and the value of the invention is potentially known) may become problematic if the company and employee have a deteriorating relationship.

2. Include assignment clauses in employment agreements as a matter of course. 

Sometimes a company may ask only certain types of employees (those involved in research and development, for example) to sign an assignment agreement. But the company doing so may not capture innovations created by employees outside of product development. The better approach is to include an assignment clause in all employment agreements. This approach allows a company to capture the “light-bulb” innovation—for example, the assembly-line worker who unexpectedly invents a valuable modification to a machine used in the company’s business.

3. Add disclosure and waiver clauses. 

The assignment agreement should require the employee to disclose all inventions conceived or made before the employee accepted employment with the company. These clauses help define what inventions occurred after the employee/employer relationship begins. These clauses also may rebut claims that an invention surfacing after employment began related to work before employment. The disclosure clause should also make clear that the employee waives a later claim that an invention occurred before the employment relationship began if the invention is not disclosed in the employment agreement. The agreement should also require the employee to immediately disclose to the company any inventions conceived or made by the employee during employment. A company cannot patent inventions it does not know about.

4. Understand how state law governs assignment clauses.

Intellectual property assignments in employment agreements are governed by state law. In a recent employee-assignment case, for example, the Federal Circuit certified to the Wyoming Supreme Court the question of whether ongoing employment was sufficient consideration for a separate assignment agreement. The Wyoming Supreme Court decided that ongoing employment was sufficient consideration. Further, some states have statutes regulating assignment clauses. California and Washington, for instance, have statutes limiting the scope of intellectual property assignment clauses to cover only inventions that relate to the employer’s business. A company should review the laws of the relevant state that will govern the assignment agreement to ensure it is not overbroad.

5. Make the assignment clause clear; do not rely on an employee handbook. 

A company should include an assignment clause in an employment agreement, or even use a standalone assignment agreement, that the employee signs. Blanket provisions or policies in employee handbooks or other manuals in most cases do not result in a present assignment or an obligation to assign. A clear assignment clause that exists independently of other employment policy materials helps draw awareness to the assignment and its implications.

In conclusion, a company’s intellectual property may provide the advantage necessary to succeed in today’s technology-based marketplace. At least one recent study suggests that intangible assets, including intellectual property, make up an increasingly large percentage of the assets of large companies. Thus, it is critical for companies to secure ownership of the intellectual property created by their employees, and they can do so by improving their employment agreements or using specific intellectual property assignment agreements.

David Prange , a trial lawyer and a registered patent attorney, is a principal in the Minneapolis office of Robins Kaplan. He focuses on complex business litigation with an emphasis on intellectual property and licensing disputes. Josh Strom, a previous Robins Kaplan associate.

The articles on our website include some of the publications and papers authored by our attorneys, both before and after they joined our firm. The content of these articles should not be taken as legal advice.  The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or official position of Robins Kaplan LLP.

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Invention Assignment Agreements – How to Avoid Pitfalls

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Sample intellectual property policy & contract language.

By the Special Committee on Distance Education and Intellectual Property Issues

Intellectual property has been a long discussed and debated topic, that has become more pressing with recent developments in technology. Many colleges and universities have instituted policies unilaterally, while others have adopted policies negotiated between faculties and administrations. These negotiated policies have sometimes been within collective bargaining contracts and sometimes through some other venue.

Whatever the context, faculties need to develop appropriate policies and language. The following sample language was taken from a review of existing policies, contracts, and AAUP policy statements.

Components to be Included

What is "intellectual property"?

Who owns the intellectual property?

Who may use the intellectual property?

How are any funds to be distributed?

How are emerging issues and disputes resolved?

Introduction

The parties to this agreement believe that the public interest is best served by creating an intellectual environment whereby creative efforts and innovations can be encouraged and rewarded, while still retaining for the college or university and its learning communities reasonable access to, and use of, the intellectual property for whose creation the college or university has provided assistance. The college or university supports the development, production, and dissemination of intellectual property by its faculty members.

What is Intellectual Property?

Although the law provides for a several different types of Intellectual Property, faculty concerns center on two: copyrights and patents. The following definitions are taken from pertinent federal statutes:

When used in this agreement, the term "Copyright" shall be understood to mean that bundle of rights that protect original works of authorshipfixed in any tangible medium of expression, now known or later developed, from which they can be perceived, reproduced, or otherwise communicated, either directly or with the aid of a machine or device. "Works of authorship" (including computer programs) include, but are not limited to the following: literary works; musical works, including any accompanying words; dramatic works, including any accompanying music; pantomimes and choreographic works; pictorial, graphic, and sculptural works (photographs, prints, diagrams, models, and technical drawings); motion pictures and other audiovisual works; sound recordings; and architectural works. "Tangible media" include, but are not limited to, books, periodicals, manuscripts, phonorecords, films, tapes, and disks. When used in this agreement, the term "Patent" shall be understood to mean that bundle of rights that protect inventions or discoveries which constitute any new and useful process, machine, manufacture, or composition of matter, or any new and useful improvement thereof; new and ornamental designs for any useful article and plant patents being for the asexual reproduction of a distinct variety of plant, including cultivated sprouts, mutants, hybrids, and new found seedlings, other than a tuber propagated plant or plant found in an uncultivated state.

[ Note on computer software: Computer programs fall into a gray area between the two types of intellectual property. Programs that are a part of a "new and useful process" may be eligible for patent protection, while programs embodying minimally original expression may be eligible for copyright protection.]

[ Note on duration of patents and copyrights: The duration of a patent is 20 years from the date of the filing of the patent. Actual patent protection begins when the patent actually issues from the Patent & Trademark Office. The duration of a copyright (for works created and published after January 1, 1978) is the life of the author plus 70 years. Before that date, the duration of copyright (with some exception) had been 75 years, increased to 95 years in 1998. Unlike patent protection, copyright protection under the Copyright Act attaches as soon as a work is "fixed in a tangible medium of expression," i.e., put on paper. There is no need to place a notice on distributed copies or applying to the Copyright Office for registration. (There are some benefits in doing so, but they are irrelevant to the duration of copyright.)]  

Who Owns the Intellectual Property?

AAUP has adopted a policy Statement on Copyright (approved by the Council June 1999) but it has not formally addressed the questions of patents. The copyright statement takes as its guiding assumption that the faculty member (or members) who create the intellectual property, own the intellectual property. ["It has been the prevailing academic practice to treat the faculty member as the copyright owner of works that are created independently and at the faculty member's own initiative for traditional academic purposes." AAUP Statement on Copyright. ] Although that assumption applies to the patent area as well, there is in the academic context a practice of arranging for agreements between college and university administrations and faculty inventors that provide in some detail a means of sharing income from commercial application of patented inventions.

Intellectual property created, made, or originated by a faculty member shall be the sole and exclusive property of the faculty, author, or inventor, except as he or she may voluntarily choose to transfer such property, in full, or in part.

The AAUP Statement on Copyright describes three limited and expressly defined sets of circumstances where the college or university can claim ownership of the copyright.

• Special works created in circumstances that may properly be regarded as "made for hire." [See the AAUP Statement on Copyright for an extended discussion of work for hire. A work should NOT be treated as "made for hire" merely because it is created with the use of university resources, facilities, or materials of the sort traditionally and commonly made available to faculty members.]
• Negotiated contractual transfers, and
• "Joint works" as described in the Copyright Act, where the institution can be considered a co-author.

The university shall own copyright only in the following 3 circumstances: I. The college or university expressly directs a faculty member to create a specified work, or the work is created as a specific requirement of employment or as an assigned institutional duty that may, for example, be included in a written job description or an employment agreement. II. The faculty author has voluntarily transferred the copyright, in whole or in part to the institution. Such transfer shall be in the form of a written document signed by the faculty author. III. The college or university has contributed to a "joint work" under the Copyright Act. The institution can exercise joint ownership under this clause when it has contributed specialized services and facilities to the production of the work that goes beyond what is traditionally provided to faculty members generally in the preparation of their course materials. Such arrangement is to be agreed to in writing, in advance, and in full conformance with other provisions of this agreement .

Who May Use the Intellectual Property?

A collective bargaining agreement or institutional policy may also allow for institutions to use works created by faculty members without charge for educational and administrative purposes within the institution. Faculty members should be encouraged to include such uses in their agreements transferring copyright for such works to a publisher. These uses would be to enable the institution to operate more efficiently for such purposes as complying with accreditation agency requests, not to infringe on legitimate faculty rights.

Material created for ordinary teaching use in the classroom and in department programs, such as syllabi, assignments, and tests, shall remain the property of the faculty author, but institutions shall be permitted to use such material for internal instructional, educational, and administrative purposes, including satisfying requests of accreditation agencies for faculty-authored syllabi and course descriptions. In an agreement transferring copyright for such works to a publisher, faculty authors are urged to seek to provide rights for the institution to use such works for internal instructional, educational, and administrative purposes.

Distribution of Any Funds Generated

Funds received by the faculty member from the sale of intellectual property owned by the faculty author or inventor shall be allocated and expended as determined solely by the faculty author or inventor. Funds received by the college or university from the sale of intellectual property owned by the college or university shall be allocated and expended as determined solely by the college or university. Funds received by the faculty member and the college or university from the sale of intellectual property owned jointly by the faculty member and the college or University shall be allocated and expended in accordance with the specific agreement herein provided: [must be negotiated by the parties.] In the event of multiple creators, the creators will determine the allocation their individual shares when the work is first undertaken.

How to Resolve Emerging Issues and Disputes

In light of the changing legislative environment, and in view of the evolution of contracts and policies in the intellectual property area AAUP believes that the establishment of an on-going Intellectual Property Committee representing both faculty and administration would serve a useful purpose in both collective bargaining and non-collective bargaining environments. Such a committee could serve a variety of purposes, including keeping faculty and administration apprised of technological changes that will affect the legislative, contract, and policy contexts. Such a committee would play a role in policy development, as well as perform a dispute resolution function. In the absence of such an overall policy committee, a dispute resolution committee with both administrative and faculty representation is essential.

The Intellectual Property Policy and Rights Committee will be composed of members equally apportioned between faculty (elected by the Faculty Senate, or some similar faculty body) and administration (appointed by the president or his/her designee.) The committee members shall elect a chair from among themselves each year. At the time of initial appointment or election, each member shall be designated as serving a one or two, or threeyear term, so that the term of one faculty committee member and one administration member will expire each year and replacements will be appointed or elected each year. After the first appointment subsequent members shall serve a threeyear term, commencing on July 1 and terminating on June 30. Committee members may serve one additional threeyear term. The Committee shall monitor and review technological and legislative changes affecting intellectual property policy and shall report to relevant faculty and administrative bodies, when such changes affect existing policies. The committee shall serve as a forum for the receipt and discussion of proposals to change existing institutional policy and/or to provide recommendations for contract negotiations. Disputes over ownership, and its attendant rights, of intellectual property will be decided by the Intellectual Property Policy and Rights Committee. The committee shall make an initial determination of whether the college or university or any other party has rights to the invention or other creation, and, if so, the basis and extent of those rights. The committee shall also make a determination on resolving competing faculty claims to ownership when the parties cannot reach an agreement on their own. The committee will review the merits of inventions, and other creations, and make recommendations for the management of the invention, including development, patenting, and exploitation. If the inventors/creators disagree with the determination of the committee he/she may appeal to binding arbitration. The cost of the arbitration shall be borne equally by the university and the creator(s).

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Patent Assignments in Employment Agreements – a Sometimes Overlooked, but Always Important Component

• November 16, 2021

By: Peter C. Lando and Thomas P. McNulty

With assistance from summer intern Tyler Gruttadauria

Businesses, of course, have a strong interest in owning intellectual property created by their employees. Intellectual property—patents, copyrights, and other confidential and proprietary information including trade secrets—is often the most valuable asset a business can own, so it is important to ensure that employee developments and inventions belong to the employer. In the United States, inventions presumptively belong to the inventor, and any transfer of ownership (“assignment”) must be in writing to be effective. Rather than requiring employees to sign assignment agreements for each patent application filing, employers sometimes rely on employment agreements and handbooks to establish ownership in intellectual property created by an employee. Employers often provide employment agreements with assignment clauses that are intended to give the employer rights in inventions made by the employee during the period of employment. These assignment clauses are often treated as mere boilerplate, yet the precise wording of these clauses can have major impacts on the effectiveness and limitations of any assignment.

Ensure that you have an Assignment and not a mere promise to assign

When drafting an agreement to have an employee assign future inventions, it is vital that the language used in an assignment clause states a present-tense, actual assignment. Phrases such as “hereby assign,” “agrees to grant and does hereby grant,” or that inventions “shall belong” to the employer and employee “hereby conveys, transfers and assigns” have been deemed by the courts to be effective to transfer ownership of a future invention without the need for any subsequent agreement. Ownership effectively transfers immediately, once the invention has been made. Assignment clauses that use future tense language, on the other hand, generally will require an additional agreement to result in a transfer of ownership of the invention, and any intellectual property (“IP”) covering the invention. Terms such as “will assign,” “agree to assign,” “will be assigned,” and the like, have been found by numerous courts to constitute nothing more than a promise or contract to assign an invention in the future, but not to serve as an actual assignment.

In addition to the wording used in the assignment clause, the language of any carve-outs should also be scrutinized. Agreements may contain a carve-out clause to exclude a new employee’s prior inventions from being assigned, or to prevent assignment of inventions unrelated to the employee’s work from being swept into the assignment provision. A broad, non-specific carve-out clause may prevent an employee agreement from automatically assigning inventions of that employee, even where the assignment clause includes the proper “hereby assign” type of language, because this leaves open the possibility that an invention is not subject to the assignment clause. This contrasting language may create an ambiguity in the employment agreement that subjects it to construction under state law, which in turn may allow for the employee to introduce extrinsic evidence, such as conversations that took place during employment negotiations, to defeat the automatic assignment. While patent assignment provisions are governed by Federal Circuit law, resolution of contractual ambiguities is governed by state law, which varies considerably regarding the admissibility of such extrinsic evidence.

Failure to obtain an automatic assignment can have negative consequences

An assignment clause that is deemed ineffective to automatically transfer ownership of an invention can create significant problems for an employer. In such circumstances, a business would not have standing to bring a patent infringement suit until it has taken the necessary steps to obtain a valid assignment. This may require the filing of a breach of contract claim against the employee to require fulfillment of the contractual obligations, including execution of assignment documents. In the interim, infringers could continue practicing the invention; and if the infringing activity has gone on long enough, the six-year statute of limitations may prohibit full recovery of damages. Further, if an inventor/employee has made only a promise to assign, and instead transfers ownership to a third party who lacks knowledge of the assignment obligation, that second transfer of ownership may well prevail, leaving the original employer with no exclusionary rights at all.

Ineffective assignment provisions can affect more than just litigation. Businesses and investors typically conduct IP due diligence when entering into transactions involving the investment in or sale of IP assets, company divisions or entire entities, and any weaknesses in assignment provisions may affect the perceived value of the IP assets and/or business being considered.

Do not count on the “Hired-to-Invent” doctrine to result in ownership of employee inventions

Some employers do not require employees to sign an agreement containing an assignment of inventions because they believe that they automatically own inventions that they paid someone to create. Under the “hired-to-invent” doctrine, this will only occasionally be correct. Employees or contractors hired (and paid) specifically to create a particular invention or to solve a particular problem may be deemed to have implicitly assigned their rights in the invention to the employer. This is a highly fact-based determination, however, and applies only to inventions created in response to the specific thing the employee was hired to do. A mere title of “researcher” or even “inventor” will not, standing alone, suffice to ensure ownership of inventions by the employer. Further, until a court has ruled one way or the other, an employer relying on this doctrine will not have any certainty in its rights to the invention. Should the court rule against the employer, it would lose the exclusionary rights it believed it possessed and may face an infringement lawsuit from the employee or anyone to whom the employee may have assigned the invention/patent rights.

Absent an effective assignment, an employer may obtain limited “shop rights” in inventions made using the employer’s time, materials, facilities or equipment. Shop rights take the form of an implied license to practice the invention, precluding the employee from obtaining damages or injunctive relief on a patented invention. Shop rights are limited, however, and do not allow the employer to prevent others from competing by practicing the invention. Further, shop rights cannot be transferred via license or assignment, effectively devaluing the IP assets and, perhaps, the company.

Other Considerations

In addition to having the proper “hereby assign” language, employment contracts should ensure that inventions , rather than just patents or patent applications, are subject to the assignment clause. Language stating that all inventions, improvements, discoveries, and the like, whether or not patentable or copyrightable, are subject to the assignment, ensures that information that could be protected through other regimes, such as trade secrets, automatically become the property of the employer.

Intellectual property has taken on an ever-increasing role in determining the value of a business. A company’s ability to develop and protect its intellectual property is a key factor in its future success. Given this, it is important that businesses recognize that assignment provisions of employment agreements are not mere boilerplate, but instead may be one of the most important legal provisions that ultimately can impact not only an employment arrangement, but the value of the business itself.

• Peter C. Lando
• Thomas P. McNulty

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