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
Trade Mark Search in India Made Easy: A Guide to Quick and Effective Checks
Understanding Trademark Search in India
A trademark search means reviewing existing registered or pending trademarks in the government-maintained database run by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps identify whether your desired trademark is available or if it interferes with any existing mark.
Conducting a trademark search early in the branding process minimises the risk of legal violation and ensures your trademark identity remains unique and legally secured.
Importance of Doing a Trade Mark Search
Doing a trade mark search before registering is not just wise—it’s critical for avoiding problems. A thorough search lets you:
- Prevent selecting already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Prevent future disputes
- Preserve distinctiveness
- Speed up the registration process
Without adequate checking, your trademark application might be opposed, wasting time and resources.
How to Check a Trade Mark in India?
The Trade Marks Registry offers an official website where anyone can perform a trademark search. To search:
- Go to the Trade Marks Registry website
- Navigate to the public search section
- Type your brand name or logo text
- Select the correct class
- Browse the list
This platform gives you visibility into both registered trademarks and pending applications, so you can check availability.
Understanding Trademark Classes
Each trademark belongs to 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 accurate.
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.
Phonetic and Wordmark Searches
When checking for trademark availability, run both wordmark and phonetic searches. A wordmark search looks for identical or similar spellings. A phonetic search finds names that sound alike, even if spelled differently.
This helps you catch trademarks that could pose legal issues, 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 private platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Search filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools make the process easier for startups and give trademark in india search confidence that your trademark is ready to file.
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 Registry portal supports image-based filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your symbol or logo doesn’t match another registered design, keeping your brand safe.
Why Hire a Trademark Consultant?
While anyone can search, a trademark attorney 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 file your trademark. This includes:
- Preparing documents
- Selecting classes
- Submitting payments
The process then enters examination, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.
Conclusion
An early trademark search in India is the most important 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