Document background
The Invention Assignment Agreement is a crucial document for companies operating in Germany who employ individuals capable of creating inventions during their employment. This agreement, governed by German law, particularly the Arbeitnehmererfindungsgesetz (Employee Inventions Act), establishes the framework for handling intellectual property created by employees. It is essential for organizations engaged in research, development, or innovative activities, as it clearly defines the processes for invention disclosure, assignment of rights, and statutory compensation. The document must be carefully crafted to comply with German legal requirements, which provide specific protections for employee inventors, including mandatory compensation for service inventions. This agreement is typically implemented at the start of employment or when an employee moves into a role where invention creation is possible, and it remains relevant throughout the employment relationship.
