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
How to Conduct a Trademark Search in India: Simple and Effective Steps
Trademark Search Basics – What You Need to Know
A trademark search means reviewing existing registered or pending trademarks in the central database hosted by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps determine whether your desired trademark is free to use or if it conflicts with any existing mark.
Doing a trademark search at the beginning of the branding process reduces the risk of legal violation and ensures your trademark identity remains distinctive and legally secured.
Importance of Doing a Trade Mark Search
Doing a trade mark search before registering is not just smart—it’s crucial for ensuring success. A careful search lets you:
- Prevent selecting already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Prevent future disputes
- Preserve distinctiveness
- Speed up the registration process
Without careful 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 perform a trademark search. To search:
- Access the Trade Marks Registry website
- Open 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.
Why Trademark Classification Matters
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 relevant.
For example, apparel brands usually search under Class 25, while tech products often go under Class 9. Understanding this system 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 phonetic search finds names that are pronounced similarly, even if spelled in a different way.
This helps you spot trademarks that could pose legal issues, giving you better peace of mind before applying.
Resources and Platforms for Trade Mark Checks
The Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks provides a free, government search tool. There are also external platforms that offer extra features like:
- Search filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for new brands and give confidence that your trademark is ready to file.
How to Check Logo Trademarks
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 image-based filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your design or icon 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 clarity to the process. Professionals:
- Know trademark law deeply
- Identify hidden risks
- Suggest alternatives
- Support filing and follow-up
For serious businesses, professional support adds strategy 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
- Choosing categories
- Paying government fees
The process then enters review, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.
Conclusion
A thorough trademark search in India is the first step in securing your identity. It ensures your check trade mark brand assets are free to use, legally safe, and fit for filing.
With simple search platforms and expert help, anyone can conduct a trademark search. Begin with clarity—because a strong brand needs a strong foundation. Report this page