Checklist for Licensing Intellectual Property

You get patents, trademarks, and copyrights so that someone doesn't steal your ideas. But those intellectual property protections can also make some money if someone wants to use your ideas. Licensing your intellectual property can be lucrative, but it can also be a legal headache.

So here are some things to think about before licensing your intellectual property, depending on the type of property involved and to whom you'll be licensing:

Invention Licensing Versus Manufacturing

So, you came up with your million-dollar idea. Do you make it yourself, or license it to an existing manufacturer? There's no right answer for all inventors or inventions.

Inventions Made by Employees: Legal Rights

What if it was one of your employees who came up with the million-dollar idea? Does your company own the rights? And, more importantly, who makes the call on licensing?

Copyright Licenses

Let's say your great idea wasn't an invention so much as a work of art, music, or software? Copyright licenses can be exclusive or nonexclusive, and can be limited by purpose, territory, duration, and media.

Software License Considerations

Licensing computer software can be very different from licensing a song or literary work. So be careful before licensing your code.

Art Licensing - Should You Assign or License Your Work?

Another option to a limited license is a permanent assignment. But if you're going to give your art away for good, make sure you know exactly what you're actually giving away and for exactly how much.

Foreign Licensing of Your Intellectual Property Rights

If you're licensing IP to a foreign entity, which countries IP laws apply to the deal? This can be especially relevant when asking foreign manufacturers to make your product.

IP Forms and Contracts

If you want do-it-yourself intellectual licensing forms and contracts, we have those. And if you want more specific guidance from an experienced IP attorney, we can help you find one of those as well.

Related Resources:

• Find Intellectual Property Lawyers Near You (FindLaw's Lawyer Directory)
• 5 Questions to Ask an Intellectual Property Lawyer (FindLaw's Free Enterprise)
• Top Intellectual Property Tips for New Business Owners (FindLaw's Free Enterprise)
• Does Your Business Need an Intellectual Property Audit? (FindLaw's Free Enterprise)