Why You Need to Know About public search of trade marks?
Why You Need to Know About public search of trade marks?
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 means reviewing existing registered or pending trademarks in the official database maintained by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps identify whether your proposed trademark is free to use or if it interferes with any existing mark.
Doing a trademark search before 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 prior to filing is not just smart—it’s critical for protecting your brand. A comprehensive search lets you:
- Steer clear of already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Prevent future disputes
- Ensure your brand is unique
- Simplify the registration process
Without proper checking, your trademark application might be rejected, 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:
- Access the Trade Marks Registry website
- Navigate to the public search section
- Enter your keyword
- Select the correct class
- Check for matches
This platform gives you visibility into both approved marks and filed requests, so you can check availability.
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. Selecting the right class ensures your search is accurate.
For example, apparel brands usually search under Class 25, while tech products 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 pose legal issues, 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 trade mark search india tool. There are also third-party platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Search filters
- Expert analysis
- Detailed reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for new brands and give confidence that your trademark is clear to register.
How to Check Logo Trademarks
If your brand identity uses a logo, you’ll need to 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 symbol or logo doesn’t conflict with another registered design, avoiding legal issues.
The Value of Expert Guidance for Trade Mark Searches
While individuals can check trademarks, 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 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, publication, 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 first step in securing your identity. It ensures your brand assets are unique, 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 strong brand needs a strong foundation. Report this page