Intellectual Property

Ireland’s intellectual property regime is a key reason for the country's growing reputation as a centre of excellence in research and development in every field of science and technology. Provisions in the Finance Bill 2009, aimed at developing and sustaining Ireland’s “smart economy” by promoting R&D and enterprise activities from an Irish base, underpin the country's competitive tax position and attractiveness as a base for innovative industries. The legislation includes patents, trademarks, brand names, copyright, know-how, and licenses in the definition of intangible assets and the goodwill attributable to those assets. In short, there has never been a better time for Irish and multinationals to develop and acquire IP in Ireland.

Intellectual property unit

Our IP specialists help companies and enterprises of all kinds turn ideas into action. We offer practical legal, commercially-focused advice on how to protect and exploit intellectual property rights. Working from within the firm’s corporate and commercial department, we frequently support our colleagues in other parts of the practice whose clients have IP issues. Our core team of experienced lawyers advise on all aspects of IP in key innovative sectors -including ICT, digital media, software and technology, and in biotechnology/life sciences/pharma where our market-leading practice is widely known for its IP and licensing expertise. We have a growing reputation for working with University-based technology incubation centres, helping researchers realise the commercial potential of their research.

Intellectual property services

Our intellectual property law unit advises on the full body of IP law applicable in Ireland and across the EU. Our services include:

• IP due diligence investigations
• IP registration strategy
• IP financing - incubation funds and venture capital
• IP mortgaging and charging
• IP exploitation by licence and assignment
• Brand management and strategies
• IP enforcement