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License your IP or license from others.
Generate income from your intellectual property while retaining ownership. Clear terms prevent disputes, proper structuring protects both parties.
Monetise your IP without selling it.
Licensing allows you to generate ongoing income from your intellectual property while maintaining control. Whether you are licensing out or licensing in, clear agreements protect everyone.
"The right licensing structure can turn a single innovation into a sustainable income stream."
Licensing Out
You've built something valuable - software, a brand, a patent, trade secrets. Licensing lets others use it while you retain ownership and receive royalties.
- Generate ongoing income
- Expand market reach
- Maintain ownership and control
Licensing In
Need to use someone else's IP? A well-structured licence gives you the rights you need without the cost of developing or acquiring IP outright.
- Access proven technology/brands
- Reduce development costs
- Clear terms prevent disputes
What can be licensed?
Technology & Software
Software licences, SaaS agreements, technical specifications, and proprietary systems.
Brands & Trademarks
Brand names, logos, and trademarks for use on products or in marketing.
Copyright
Creative works, content, designs, publications, and artistic works.
Patents
Patented inventions, processes, and technical innovations.
Manufacturing Rights
Rights to manufacture products using your designs or processes.
Know-How & Trade Secrets
Confidential business knowledge, techniques, and proprietary methods.
What every licence agreement needs.
Every licence agreement should address these key areas. The specifics depend on your situation, but missing any of these can create problems later.
Scope & Exclusivity
What's being licensed? Exclusive, sole, or non-exclusive rights?
Territory
Where can the licensee use your IP? Geographic or market limits.
Royalty Structure
How will you be paid? Revenue share, per-unit, or flat fees.
Quality Control
How do you ensure your IP is used properly?
Term & Renewal
Duration and what happens when it ends.
IP Protection
Who handles infringement? Licensee's protection duties.
Termination Rights
When can either party end it? Exit provisions.
Licence vs Franchise?
Choosing wrong creates legal problems. We help you pick.
Drafting Agreements
We create agreements tailored to your IP type, business model, and relationship with the licensee. Clear language, practical terms.
Negotiating Terms
We negotiate with the other party to achieve terms that work for you while maintaining the relationship.
Agreement Reviews
If you are taking a licence, we review the proposed terms and identify risks or issues before you commit.
Royalty Structures
We help you design payment structures that are fair, measurable, and administratively practical.
Disputes & Termination
When licensing relationships end or run into problems, we help you navigate exit provisions and resolve disputes.
Licensing connects with...
Licensing often sits alongside other business legal needs. Here's how we can help further.
What Our Clients Say
"Prompt, friendly & efficient service"
"I have always received excellent service from Carlile Dowling."
"A pleasure to work with."
To ensure candour, all feedback was collected anonymously.
Related Reading
Limitation Periods in New Zealand: Time Limits for Legal Claims
Understanding time limits for legal claims. Covers contract (6 years), tort (6 years), employment (90 days), and when time starts running.
New Zealand Disputes Tribunal: A Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about the Disputes Tribunal. Covers jurisdiction limits, types of disputes, process, costs, and when to use it.
Company vs Trust: Which Structure for Your Business?
Companies and trusts serve different purposes. Understanding when each is appropriate helps you choose the right structure for your situation.
Meet the team
behind your licensing
Common Questions
We work with businesses of all sizes across Hawke's Bay, from startups and family businesses to established enterprises. Our clients include vineyards, orchards, professional services, hospitality, retail, trades, and many others.
Many business issues require legal advice, even for small businesses. Getting structures and agreements right from the start often prevents costly problems later. We are happy to discuss whether legal help would benefit your situation.
Accountants and lawyers complement each other. Your accountant advises on financial and tax issues. Working alongside your accountant, we handle legal structures, contracts, financing, securities, employment and more.
Any existing documents relevant to your situation: company records, contracts, agreements you are considering, or details of issues you are facing. But if you are just at the thinking stage, that is fine too.
Ready to discuss your needs? We're here to help.