Intellectual Property Ownership Clarification

Summary

In Arizona, intellectual property rights generally remain with the creator unless a written agreement specifies otherwise. If a system is custom-developed for a client and they paid for it, they may have certain rights, but without a contract, the developer typically retains ownership. Consider drafting a contract to clarify ownership terms.

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We developed a web based system for a client, based on our core CMS. Nothing specific was written, in terms of who would own the intellectual property. What is the normal position
In Arizona, the general rule is that intellectual property rights typically remain with the creator, unless there is a written agreement specifying otherwise. Here are some key points:
- If no agreement exists, the developer usually retains ownership of the IP.
- Clients may have usage rights under implied licenses.
- Consider drafting a contract to clarify ownership.
Would you like advice on creating an agreement or addressing this with your client?
Even if the system was very specific to their business and they paid for the development
If the system was custom-developed specifically for their business, and they paid for the development, it might suggest they have certain rights to the intellectual property. However, without a written agreement, the developer typically retains ownership. You might want to consider drafting a contract to clarify these terms. Would you like guidance on creating such an agreement?