IP Clinic & Lab

Free intellectual property guidance for music creatives and music-tech innovators in the Liverpool City Region.

The MusicFutures IP Clinic and Lab supports music makers and music-related businesses by providing accessible, expert guidance in intellectual property and commercial contracts.

By lowering barriers to legal and strategic IP advice, the clinic supports more equitable participation in music innovation and creativity, particularly for independent artists and small enterprises.

It helps creators and businesses understand and protect their rights, enabling them to commercialise their work confidently while reducing the risk of infringement or loss of ownership.

Rooted in the Liverpool City Region’s strong cultural identity and music economy, the clinic strengthens connections between academia, industry and local talent, improving IP literacy and helping drive inclusive economic growth.

How the Clinic Works

Education first. Disputes last.

The MusicFutures IP Clinic is a free, non-contentious service, meaning we focus on prevention and understanding rather than dispute resolution. We’re here to equip you with knowledge before problems arise, not to compete with law firms when they do.

At the heart of what we do is tailored IP guidance: practical briefings and workshops designed around the realities of working in music and music-tech.

This means the clinic does not compete with legal services offered by law firms.

HOW WE CAN HELP

– Intellectual Property Matters: Understand how copyright, trade marks, patents, designs and trade secrets protect your work.

– Contracts & deals: Navigate agreements, licensing, and commercial relationships with confidence.

– Getting paid: Learn how royalties, collecting societies and platforms actually work.

– Brand & identity: Protect your name, likeness and creative identity from the start.

– Platform issues: Get guidance on challenging decisions affecting your account or content.

– Workshops: Bespoke sessions delivered across the Liverpool City Region.

WHO IT’S FOR

Made for music makers and innovators

If any of these sound like you, the clinic can help:

– You write, perform, record or release music

– You run a music-related business

– You have a music-tech idea ready to launch

– You want to protect your brand or creative identity

– You if you’re unsure what your work is actually worth commercially

– You need to challenge a decision on a platform

Whether your idea is fully formed or still taking shape, you’re welcome here.

THE CLINIC TEAM

The clinic is supported by Rory Taylor from Kanaval Consultancy and Ben Prangell from Asenda Law.

What to expect

From first contact to written advice.

A straightforward four-step process. Here's what happens when you come to the clinic.

Initial Interview

You'll meet with up to three students and a supervising adviser to talk through your situation. This is a chance to explain your work, your questions, and what you're hoping to protect or understand.

Case Review

After the interview, the students and their supervisor review your case together and agree on the best way to help you.

Research

Where needed, the team will carry out additional research before preparing guidance — ensuring the advice you receive is accurate and specific to your situation.

Advice Letter

You'll receive a clear, written advice letter summarising what we found and what we recommend which is yours to keep and act on. Usually within 3–4 weeks of your interview. Timelines may vary for complex cases.

Get involved

Register for the IP Clinic

If you would like support from the MusicFutures IP Clinic and Lab, please register using the form below.