Corporate & Commercial

Intellectual Property

Intellectual Property

At Franklins Solicitors, our Corporate & Commercial team helps businesses protect, enforce and maximise the value of their intellectual property. From trademarks and copyright to patents and confidential information, we provide strategic legal advice to safeguard your most valuable commercial assets.

At Franklins Solicitors, our Corporate & Commercial team helps businesses protect, enforce and maximise the value of their intellectual property. From trademarks and copyright to patents and confidential information, we provide strategic legal advice to safeguard your most valuable commercial assets.

law for life

What is Intellectual Property?

Intellectual Property (IP) refers to the legal rights that protect creations of the mind and intangible business assets. These rights can cover everything from your brand and creative output to inventions and technical know-how.

Examples of intellectual property include:

  • Business names, brands and logos

  • Copyright in creative works such as text, photography, music and code

  • Product packaging, get-up and design identity

  • Patented inventions, processes, or systems

  • Databases and structured information

  • Confidential information, trade secrets and know-how

Understanding what rights you hold – and how to secure and enforce them – is vital to protecting your business advantage.

law for life

Our Intellectual Property Services

We advise businesses of all sizes on protecting and exploiting their IP. Our services cover the full lifecycle of intellectual property rights.

Enforcement & Disputes

  • Cease and Desist Letters & Early Dispute Resolution

  • Passing Off and Trade Mark Infringement Claims

  • Copyright and Design Right Enforcement

  • Domain Name Disputes and Online Brand Protection

  • Litigation, Settlement Negotiation & Defence

IP Protection & Strategy

  • IP Audits and Identification of Valuable Assets

  • UK and International Trade Mark Registration

  • Copyright Advice, Ownership & Assignments

  • Patent Strategy and Applications via UKIPO

  • Drafting Confidentiality Agreements and NDAs

Commercialising IP

  • Licensing and Franchising Arrangements

  • Software and Brand Licensing

  • IP Assignment and Transfer Agreements

  • Joint Venture and Distribution Agreements

Speak to our Corporate & Commercial Team

Whether you are setting up, scaling, buying, selling or protecting your business, our solicitors will help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Contact
Simon Long
Managing Partner
Andrea Smith
Equity Partner
Christopher Buck
Associate Partner
Robyn Jefferies
Solicitor
Marc Button
Solicitor
Tya Raikundalia
Solicitor
Amy Griggs
Trainee Solicitor
Corporate & Commercial

Why Choose Franklins Solicitors for
Intellectual Property?

With dedicated IP knowledge and commercial insight, we combine technical expertise with practical business sense. Our solicitors are experienced in guiding companies across all sectors, ensuring your intellectual property is both protected and aligned with your growth strategy.

Specialist Expertise

Full intellectual property coverage across all rights.

Complete Support

From initial protection through to enforcement.

Clear Advice

Practical, jargon-free guidance focused on your goals.

Local & National Reach

Based in Milton Keynes and Northampton, serving clients UK-wide.

Corporate & Commercial

Intellectual Property FAQs

How do I know if I need to register a trademark or patent?2026-01-08T15:57:06+00:00

If you want exclusive rights to your brand, invention, or design, registration is essential. We help assess which IP protections suit your business and guide you through the application process.

How much does it cost to protect my intellectual property?2026-01-08T15:57:22+00:00

Costs vary depending on the type of IP, complexity and whether you are registering or enforcing rights. We provide clear, upfront advice and a tailored strategy to match your budget.

How long does IP protection last?2026-01-08T15:57:38+00:00

The duration depends on the type: patents usually last up to 20 years, trademarks can be renewed indefinitely and copyrights last for the creator’s lifetime plus a set period. We provide guidance to ensure your protections are maintained.

Can you help with intellectual property during business sales or acquisitions?2026-01-08T15:58:35+00:00

Absolutely. IP is a key business asset in transactions. We help value, protect and transfer IP rights as part of mergers, acquisitions, or disposals.

What is the difference between copyright, trademark and patent?2026-01-08T15:58:17+00:00
  • Copyright protects original creative works such as writing, music, or software.
  • Trademarks protect brands, logos and slogans.
  • Patents protect inventions and technical solutions.
    We can advise on which protections are right for your business.
Do you provide IP advice for startups and small businesses?2026-01-08T15:57:53+00:00

Yes. We help businesses of all sizes identify, protect and maximise the value of their IP, offering practical, commercially focused advice tailored to your stage of growth.

Experienced Solicitors Providing Expert Legal Advice

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