What Might Be Next In The public search of trade marks
What Might Be Next In The public search of trade marks
Blog Article
Trademark Search in India: How to Check and Find Trade Marks Easily and Effectively
Trademark Search Basics – What You Need to Know
A trademark search is about examining existing applied or approved trademarks in the central database maintained by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps verify whether your desired trademark is free to use or if it interferes with any existing mark.
Performing a trademark search at the beginning of the branding process minimises the risk of legal violation and ensures your brand identity remains unique and legally secured.
Why Checking Trade Marks Before Filing Matters
Doing a trade mark search before registering is not just wise—it’s crucial for avoiding problems. A thorough search lets you:
- Prevent selecting already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Prevent future disputes
- Ensure your brand is unique
- Speed up the registration process
Without careful checking, your trademark application might be opposed, wasting time and resources.
Steps to Do a Trademark Check in India
The Trade Marks Registry maintains an official portal where anyone can perform a trademark search. To search:
- Visit the Trade Marks Registry website
- Open the public search section
- Enter your keyword
- Choose the correct class
- Browse the list
This tool gives you visibility into both registered trademarks and filed requests, so you know where your brand stands.
Understanding Trademark Classes
Each trademark falls under a specific class. In India, there are 45 trademark classes—34 for goods and 11 for services. Identifying the proper class ensures your search is focused.
For example, apparel brands usually fall under Class 25, while software tools often go under Class 9. Understanding this system is key to getting precise results.
Why You Should Do Both Phonetic and Wordmark Searches
When checking for trademark availability, run both wordmark and phonetic searches. A literal match check looks for same or close spellings. A phonetic search finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled in a different way.
This helps you catch trademarks that could cause conflicts, giving you better peace of mind before applying.
Tools for Trademark Search in India
The CGPDTM provides a free, official search tool. There are also third-party platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Search filters
- Legal guidance
- Detailed reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for new brands and help ensure your trademark is ready to file.
Searching for Non-Text Trade Marks
If your trademark includes a logo, you’ll need to perform a visual mark check. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but the government system supports image-based filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your symbol or logo doesn’t conflict with another registered design, keeping your brand safe.
Professional Assistance for Trademark Search
While individuals can check trademarks, a trademark attorney brings experience to the process. Professionals:
- Know trademark law deeply
- Spot potential conflicts
- Suggest alternatives
- Support filing and follow-up
For serious businesses, professional support adds accuracy and legal confidence.
After You Search: What’s Next?
Once your search confirms the mark is clear, you can file your trademark. This includes:
- Preparing documents
- Choosing categories
- Paying government fees
The process then enters examination, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.
Secure Your Brand with Smart Trade Mark Checks
A proper trademark search in India is the first step in securing your identity. It ensures your name, logo or slogan are unique, legally safe, and fit trade mark search india for filing.
With simple search platforms and expert help, the process is now accessible. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand needs a strong foundation. Report this page