Guide only — this matter needs a solicitor. Under Irish law this work must be carried out by a solicitor, so it is not sold on this site. The information below explains what is involved so you can brief a solicitor with confidence.
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An IP ownership audit for start-ups in Ireland checks that the company actually owns the intellectual property it relies on. This IP Ownership Audit for Startups is solicitor-handled and Ireland-specific, aligned to the Companies Act 2014 and EU commercial law and tailored to your commercial situation. It is suitable for founders and start-ups preparing to raise or sell, without open-ended hourly billing. This service is not a substitute for full legal representation in contested commercial litigation; for complex M&A or high-value disputes, contact us for a tailored quote.
What’s included
- Document(s) drafted under Irish law and Companies Registration Office (CRO) practice
- One round of review and tailoring against your specific commercial situation
- Plain-English guidance notes for your board or management team
- Delivered by email once your details are received
- Self-complete template with guidance notes — you fill it in yourself
- Documents tailored to Irish law and your circumstances, delivered by email
- A written summary of the key points and anything you need to do afterwards
Who this is for
- Start-ups preparing for due diligence
- Founders who developed IP before incorporating
- Companies that used contractors or agencies
- Businesses with an unregistered brand
How it works
- Find a solicitor through the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory and send them the basic details and any existing documents or correspondence.
- Complete a short questionnaire about your circumstances.
- A solicitor would then prepare your document(s) or report from the details you return, with one round of review and tailoring against your commercial situation.
- Your document(s) or report and plain-English guidance notes are delivered by email.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an IP ownership audit cost in Ireland?
This page is a free guide — nothing on it is for sale. Solicitors set their own fees for this work and must give you a written costs estimate (a section 150 letter) before starting. Get quotes through the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.
Why do start-ups need an IP audit?
Investors and buyers check that the company owns its key IP. Gaps, such as missing assignments from founders or contractors, can delay or derail a deal.
How are gaps fixed?
Typically through written assignments, confirmations or registrations. The audit sets out the steps needed.
For more on business contracts and running a company in Ireland, see our Business Legal Advice hub.
If you would like to be told when solicitor services are available again on this site, you can join our no-fee waiting list. To instruct a solicitor now, use the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.
