public search of trade marks - Knowing The Best For You
public search of trade marks - Knowing The Best For You
Blog Article
Trademark Search in India: How to Check and Find Trade Marks Easily and Effectively
What is a Trademark Search?
A trademark search means reviewing existing registered or pending trademarks in the central database run by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps determine whether your chosen trademark is available 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 unique and legally secured.
Why Checking Trade Marks Before Filing Matters
Doing a trade mark search in advance of application is not just smart—it’s crucial for ensuring success. A comprehensive search lets you:
- Prevent selecting already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Reduce opposition risks
- Ensure your brand is unique
- Speed up the registration process
Without adequate checking, your trademark application might be rejected, wasting time and resources.
Where and How to Search for Trade Marks in India
The Trade Marks Registry maintains an official platform where anyone can do 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
- Choose the correct class
- View results
This tool gives you visibility into both approved marks 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. Selecting the right 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 relevant 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 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.
Resources and Platforms for Trade Mark Checks
The Indian IP Office provides a free, official search tool. There are also private platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Smart filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for new brands 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 government system 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:
- Understand classification systems
- Identify hidden risks
- Recommend changes
- Handle the registration process
For serious businesses, professional support adds strategy 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 review, 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, protected by law, and fit for filing.
With easy-to-use tools and expert trademark in india search help, the process is now accessible. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand needs a strong foundation. Report this page