Essential Things You Must Know on trade mark search india
Essential Things You Must Know on trade mark search india
Blog Article
How to Conduct a Trademark Search in India: Simple and Effective Steps
What is a Trademark Search?
A trademark search means reviewing existing applied or approved trademarks in the central database run by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps verify whether your chosen trademark is free to use or if it interferes with any existing mark.
Doing a trademark search early in the branding process reduces the risk of legal violation and ensures your brand identity remains distinctive and legally protected.
Importance of Doing a Trade Mark Search
Doing a trade mark search before registering is not just smart—it’s critical for ensuring success. A comprehensive search lets you:
- Avoid choosing already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Avoid legal fights
- Maintain exclusivity
- Streamline the registration process
Without adequate checking, your trademark application might be opposed, wasting time and resources.
Where and How to Search for Trade Marks in India
The Trade Marks Registry provides an official portal where anyone can perform a trademark search. To search:
- Visit the Trade Marks Registry website
- Navigate to the public search section
- Enter your keyword
- Select the correct class
- View results
This tool gives you visibility into both approved marks and pending applications, so you know where your brand stands.
What Are Trademark Classes?
Each trademark is grouped into a specific class. In India, there are 45 trademark classes—34 for goods and 11 for services. Selecting the right class ensures your search is focused.
For example, a clothing label usually fall under Class 25, while software tools often go under Class 9. Knowing your class is key to getting precise results.
Different Types of Trademark Checks
When checking for trademark availability, do both wordmark public search of trade marks and phonetic searches. A wordmark search looks for identical or similar spellings. A sound-based check finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled in a different way.
This ensures you spot trademarks that could pose legal issues, giving you better security before applying.
Resources and Platforms for Trade Mark Checks
The CGPDTM provides a free, official search tool. There are also external platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Smart filters
- Legal guidance
- Detailed reports
These tools make the process easier for startups and help ensure your trademark is ready to file.
How to Check Logo Trademarks
If your trademark includes a logo, you must perform a device mark search. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but the Registry portal supports visual filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your design or icon 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 clarity to the process. Professionals:
- Know trademark law deeply
- Identify hidden risks
- Recommend changes
- Handle the registration process
For serious businesses, professional support adds strategy and legal confidence.
Post-Search Steps: Filing Your Trademark
Once your search confirms the mark is clear, you can start the application process. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Choosing categories
- Paying government fees
The process then enters review, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.
Secure Your Brand with Smart Trade Mark Checks
An early trademark search in India is the most important step in protecting your brand. It ensures your name, logo or slogan are unique, legally safe, and fit for filing.
With simple search platforms and expert help, anyone can conduct a trademark search. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand starts with a strong foundation. Report this page