Readers Views Point on public search of trade marks and Why it is Trending on Social Media
Readers Views Point on public search of trade marks and Why it is Trending on Social Media
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 registered or pending trademarks in the official database hosted by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps determine whether your chosen trademark is available or if it overlaps with any existing mark.
Conducting a trademark search before the branding process minimises the risk of legal violation and ensures your brand identity remains distinctive and legally protected.
Why is Trade Mark Search Important?
Doing a trade mark search in advance of application is not just smart—it’s crucial for avoiding problems. A careful search lets you:
- Avoid choosing already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Avoid legal fights
- Preserve distinctiveness
- Speed up the registration process
Without adequate 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 do a trademark search. To search:
- Go to the Trade Marks Registry website
- Navigate to 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.
What Are 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 relevant.
For example, a clothing label usually fall under Class 25, while software tools often go under Class 9. Understanding this system is key to getting relevant results.
Phonetic and Wordmark Searches
When checking for trademark availability, do both wordmark 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 lead to confusion, giving you better peace of mind before applying.
Tools for Trademark Search in India
The Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks provides a free, official search tool. There are also private platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Search filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools make the process easier for startups and help ensure your trademark is clear to register.
Trademark Search for Logo and Device Marks
If your trademark includes a logo, you must perform a visual mark check. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but the government system supports visual filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your design or icon doesn’t match another registered design, keeping your brand safe.
Professional Assistance for Trademark Search
While anyone can search, a legal expert brings clarity to the process. Professionals:
- Know trademark law deeply
- Spot potential conflicts
- Recommend changes
- Handle the registration process
For serious businesses, professional support adds accuracy and peace of mind.
Post-Search Steps: Filing Your Trademark
Once your search confirms the mark is clear, 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 proper trademark search in India is the most important step in protecting your brand. It ensures your name, logo or slogan are free to use, legally safe, and fit for filing.
With easy-to-use tools and expert help, anyone can conduct a trademark search. Begin with clarity—because a trade mark search india strong brand needs a strong foundation. Report this page