We advise software and firmware developers on how to protect software and firmware assets, licensing and contracts with customers including service level agreements. We also advise on the use of contractors and sub-contracting development together with clean room development. On the customer side, we act for businesses which license in software for use on a standalone basis, within products or as a services together with associated support service agreements.

We have extensive experience of this sector through acting for multiple clients who develop, manufacture and supply semiconductor products internationally. This involves support with trials and partner relationships, manufacture and IP licences through to agency, reseller and distributor arrangements internationally. We also provide IP advice on protecting and defending patents, trademarks and copyright for products and brands in this sector.

Manufacturing relationships are crucial to the successful supply of products.  Its why we’re focused on ensuring clients’ manufacturing suppliers are contracted on appropriate terms and these are mirrored in our clients supply commitments.  We support our clients to ensure any tooling is treated appropriately and back up and fall over relationships are in place to protect supply chain continuity. We also advise frequently on IP protection for bespoke tooling and moulding for products.

A successful route to market involves the right Reseller and Distribution network. We’re frequently asked to advise on this and the appointment of local agents internationally. This can involve setting up or restructuring international distribution networks or agency relationships, advising on internet retailing and advice on delivery methods, exports, imports and parallel trade. Through our Wraparound Service we can ensure clients get consistency of support for these types of contracts and advice on an international scale. 

Digital platforms and e-commerce is now entrenched in our everyday lives and through out digital work, we support clients on the front end.  However we also support clients on the back end of these platforms with functionality and feature development, assistance with storage and hosting contracts, SAAS and related services and SLA’s. We provide regulatory and compliance advice on all aspects of digital platforms including on platform and intermediates liability and data capture. We also advise on the specific regulations applicable to consumers all of which gets fed back into the design of the platform so that we support a designed approach.

We advise on all types of outsourcing, one-off arrangements and framework procurements including collaboration and partnering arrangements within the Media, Digital, Creative and Technology sectors. We also support clients who wish to bring external services back in-house by negotiating and advising on return-sourcing arrangements. Our deep understanding of the Media, Digital, Creative and Technology sectors means we understand the dependencies, ask the right questions and ensure all necessary regulations and practicalities are considered. With our Wraparound Service, we can work alongside international partners to ensure a consistent approach is taken to all forms of international outsourcing.

Fintech is a fast-developing sector focused on combining traditional finance products and services with the latest technology platforms and models for customers. Exciting opportunities include, new payment systems and currencies, comparison sites, crowd funding, data analysis and infrastructure. From our work with tech companies, ecommerce and digital platforms and content providers we are able to advise on the fast developing challenges which face this sector. Often early stage businesses, we can provide the Strategic, Advisory and Compliance services required by new business and work with existing advisors with our Wraparound Services to ensure our clients get the international advice they require.  Our work has included advising on the full range of legal issues including regulatory requirements, intellectual property, data protection and technology contractual matters. Our strong background in Technology, IP and Content Production means we can think laterally and respond to the ever changing demands of Fintech.