Copyright Assignment — Word & PDF Template

This copyright assignment transfers ownership of copyright in creative works from the author or owner to another party. It records the works assigned, the consideration and a waiver of moral rights, so the new owner has a written record of the transfer.

Who is this template for?

It suits businesses, agencies, publishers and individuals acquiring or transferring copyright in England and Wales — for example commissioning artwork, software, designs, writing or branding. Use it to record the transfer of copyright in created works; it covers copyright and related rights only, not patents, trade marks or other IP.

What does the template include?

The assignment is organised into clearly numbered clauses:

• Parties — identifies the assignor and the assignee.
• Description of works — the copyright works assigned.
• Scope of assignment — the rights transferred.
• Consideration — the fee paid; the assignment takes effect on payment in full.
• Moral rights waiver — waiver of the author’s moral rights.
• Warranties — assurances about the works.
• Further assurance — co-operation to perfect title.
• Indemnity — protection against third-party claims.
• Confidentiality — handling of confidential information.
• Governing law — England and Wales jurisdiction.
• Entire agreement — the whole agreement between the parties.
• Signatures — execution by both parties.

Easy to customise

The template works in Microsoft Word, Google Docs and LibreOffice. Fill in the highlighted fields, describe the works accurately and remove anything that does not apply.

Format and scope

Supplied as an editable Word (.docx) file and a print-friendly PDF, formatted to A4. Written in plain British English with light, general references to England & Wales copyright law.