Article to Know on public search of trade marks and Why it is Trending?
Article to Know on public search of trade marks and Why it is Trending?
Blog Article
How to Conduct a Trademark Search in India: Simple and Effective Steps
Understanding Trademark Search in India
A trademark search involves checking existing applied or approved trademarks in the central database run by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps identify whether your desired trademark is free to use or if it overlaps with any existing mark.
Conducting a trademark search before the branding process reduces the risk of legal violation and ensures your trademark identity remains unique and legally protected.
Importance of Doing a Trade Mark Search
Doing a trade mark search in advance of application is not just wise—it’s essential for avoiding problems. A thorough search lets you:
- Avoid choosing already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Reduce opposition risks
- Preserve distinctiveness
- Simplify the registration process
Without proper checking, your trademark application might be opposed, wasting time and resources.
Steps to Do a Trademark Check in India
The Trade Marks Registry offers an official website where anyone can do a trademark search. To search:
- Go to the Trade Marks Registry website
- Open the public search section
- Enter your keyword
- Choose the correct class
- Check for matches
This platform gives you visibility into both approved marks and filed requests, so you know where your brand stands.
Why Trademark Classification Matters
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 relevant.
For example, apparel brands usually fall under Class 25, while tech products often go under Class 9. Understanding this system is key to getting relevant results.
Different Types of Trademark Checks
When checking for trademark availability, run both wordmark and phonetic searches. A wordmark search looks for same or close spellings. A sound-based check finds names that sound alike, even if spelled differently.
This helps you spot trademarks that could lead to confusion, giving you better security before applying.
Where to Do Trademark Searches
The CGPDTM provides a free, government search tool. There are also external platforms that offer extra features like:
- Smart filters
- Legal guidance
- Detailed reports
These tools simplify check trade mark trademark checking for small businesses and help ensure your trademark is clear to register.
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 image-based filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your design or icon doesn’t infringe on another registered design, keeping your brand safe.
Why Hire a Trademark Consultant?
While anyone can search, a trademark attorney brings depth to the process. Professionals:
- Know trademark law deeply
- Identify hidden risks
- Recommend changes
- Support filing and follow-up
For serious businesses, professional support adds accuracy and peace of mind.
After You Search: What’s Next?
Once your search confirms the mark is available, you can start the application process. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Selecting classes
- Submitting payments
The process then enters examination, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is officially registered.
Final Thoughts on Trademark Search
A thorough trademark search in India is the first step in securing your identity. It ensures your brand assets are unique, protected by law, and fit for filing.
With easy-to-use tools and expert help, the process is now accessible. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand starts with a strong foundation. Report this page