Licensing agreements

A licensing agreement permits the licensee to use protected rights—such as software, copyright, trade marks, patents, know-how or designs—within agreed limits. Key terms usually cover scope, territory, duration, exclusivity, royalties, quality control, sublicensing, warranties, termination and handling of improvements. In Switzerland, licences are mainly governed by contract law together with the specific IP regime. Some rights or licence interests may be registered where the relevant register allows it, which can affect third parties. Competition law, data protection and tax issues may also be important.