Copyright Act 2021: Primary legislation governing copyright ownership in employment context. Establishes that ownership of works created in course of employment automatically vests with employer. Addresses commissioned works and moral rights.
Patents Act 1994: Key legislation for patent rights in employment relationships. Section 49 specifically deals with employee inventions, rights during normal duties, and special compensation for outstanding benefit inventions.
Trade Marks Act 1998: Governs trademark ownership and rights in employment context, particularly relevant for employees involved in brand development.
Registered Designs Act 2000: Regulates ownership and protection of industrial designs created during employment.
Common Law - Trade Secrets: Common law principles protecting confidential information and trade secrets in employer-employee relationships.
Employment Act 1968: Main employment legislation in Singapore that provides the basic framework for employment relationships and contractual obligations.
Employment of Foreign Manpower Act: Relevant when dealing with foreign employees and their IP rights in Singapore.
Personal Data Protection Act 2012: Governs the collection, use, and disclosure of personal data, which may be relevant in IP assignments and confidentiality provisions.
Competition Act 2004: Relevant for ensuring restrictive covenants in IP assignments don't violate competition laws.
Unfair Contract Terms Act: Ensures that terms in IP assignment agreements are fair and reasonable.
Singapore Common Law Principles: General contract law principles from case law that govern the formation and enforcement of IP assignment agreements.
Asia Business Law Institute Guidelines: Provides guidance on best practices for IP rights and employment contracts in the Asian context.
