The practice of intellectual property law has historically focused on “hard” IP rights such as patents and trade marks, but many businesses (and indeed public sector bodies) have realised that knowledge management and protection may be equally critical to their continuing success. Rights in know-how and rights of confidence are less well protected by the existing legal system but organisations may still develop techniques and strategies for protecting valuable know-how. We regularly advise clients on mechanisms whereby employment contracts, commercial agreements and business practice may be adapted to improve this protection.