What Might Be Next In The public search tm
What Might Be Next In The public search tm
Blog Article
How to Conduct a Trademark Search in India: Simple and Effective Steps
Trademark Search Basics – What You Need to Know
A trademark search is about examining existing registered or pending trademarks in the central database hosted by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps verify whether your desired trademark is available or if it interferes with any existing mark.
Doing a trademark search early in the branding process minimises the risk of infringement and ensures your brand identity remains distinctive and legally secured.
Why Checking Trade Marks Before Filing Matters
Doing a trade mark search before registering is not just smart—it’s critical for ensuring success. A thorough search lets you:
- Avoid choosing already-used marks
- Save money from rejected applications
- Avoid legal fights
- Maintain exclusivity
- Simplify the registration process
Without proper checking, your trademark application might be opposed, wasting time and resources.
Where and How to Search for Trade Marks in India
The Trade Marks Registry maintains an official website where anyone can perform a trademark search. To search:
- Visit 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.
Why Trademark Classification Matters
Each trademark belongs to 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 search under Class 25, while software tools often go under Class 9. Knowing your class is key to getting precise results.
Why You Should Do Both Phonetic and Wordmark Searches
When checking for trademark availability, perform both wordmark and phonetic searches. A literal match check looks for same or close spellings. A sound-based check finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled differently.
This helps you catch trademarks that could cause conflicts, giving you better peace of mind before applying.
Where to Do Trademark Searches
The Indian IP Office provides a free, public search of trade marks government search tool. There are also external platforms that offer extra features like:
- Smart filters
- Legal guidance
- Trademark risk reports
These tools make the process easier for new brands and help ensure your trademark is ready to file.
Trademark Search for Logo and Device Marks
If your brand identity uses 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 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:
- Understand classification systems
- Spot potential conflicts
- Suggest alternatives
- Support filing and follow-up
For serious businesses, professional support adds accuracy and legal confidence.
After You Search: What’s Next?
Once your search confirms the mark is available, you can file your trademark. This includes:
- Preparing documents
- Selecting classes
- Submitting payments
The process then enters review, publication, 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