A practical guide to understanding intellectual property (IP) and technology-related laws across multiple countries. It covers core IP rights—such as copyrights, patents, trademarks, and trade secrets—by outlining the legal framework, rights, duration, ownership, and enforcement remedies in each jurisdiction. It also addresses the treatment of IP in employment contexts, covering rights and obligations for both employees and contractors.

In addition, the guide explains key commercial contract considerations related to IP, including registration requirements, recognized contract languages, enforceability of online agreements (clickwrap, shrinkwrap), and governing law. It also provides insight into the enforceability of specific contract terms like warranty disclaimers, liability limitations, indemnification, and the use of electronic signatures.

This guide is highly practical for businesses expanding globally, as it helps them navigate IP protection and compliance across different legal systems, avoid legal risks in commercial contracts, and ensure proper handling of IP-related issues in employment contracts. It’s essential for companies that deal with intellectual property and technology, especially those operating in multiple countries.

Outlining crucial aspects of IPT laws in key jurisdictions worldwide, while summarizing some fundamental commercial terms that customarily appear in IPT-related agreements. Each country section also includes a discussion on the enforceability of electronic signatures.

Scope

Intellectual Property Framework

Copyrights

  • Nature of right
  • Legal framework
  • Duration of right
  • Ownership / licenses
  • Remedies for infringement

Mask Works / Topographies

  • Nature of right
  • Legal framework
  • Duration of right
  • Ownership / licenses
  • Remedies for infringement

Patents

  • Nature of right
  • Legal framework
  • Duration of right
  • Ownership / licenses
  • Remedies for infringement

Trademarks

  • Nature of right
  • Legal framework
  • Duration of right
  • Ownership / licenses
  • Remedies for infringement

Trade Secrets

  • Nature of right
  • Legal framework
  • Duration of right
  • Ownership / licenses
  • Remedies for infringement

Other Key IP Rights

  • Nature of right
  • Legal framework
  • Duration of right
  • Ownership / licenses
  • Remedies for infringement

Intellectual Property in Employment Context

  • Employees
  • Consultants / Contractors

Key Commercial Contract Considerations

  • Registration of commercial agreements
  • Recognized language of commercial agreements
  • Country-specific issues for online content
  • Enforceability of online/clickwrap/shrinkwrap terms
  • Governing law

Key Commercial Contract Terms

  • Enforceability of warranty disclaimers
  • Enforceability of exclusions/limitations of liability
  • Indemnification
  • Electronic signatures