The Must Know Details and Updates on public search of trade marks
The Must Know Details and Updates on public search of trade marks
Blog Article
Trademark Search in India: How to Check and Find Trade Marks Easily and Effectively
What is a Trademark Search?
A trademark search is about examining existing registered or pending trademarks in the central database run by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps identify whether your desired trademark is available or if it conflicts with any existing mark.
Doing a trademark search early in the branding process minimises the risk of legal violation and ensures your trademark identity remains distinctive and legally protected.
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 careful search lets you:
- Steer clear of already-used marks
- Save money from rejected applications
- Avoid legal fights
- Ensure your brand is unique
- Streamline the registration process
Without proper checking, your trademark application might be denied, wasting time and resources.
Steps to Do a Trademark Check 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
- Open the public search section
- Type your brand name or logo text
- Choose the correct class
- Check for matches
This tool gives you visibility into both registered trademarks and filed requests, so you can check availability.
Understanding Trademark Classes
Each trademark falls under 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 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 are pronounced similarly, even if spelled differently.
This helps you spot trademarks that could lead to confusion, giving you better security before applying.
Where to Do Trademark Searches
The CGPDTM provides a free, official search tool. There are also third-party platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Search filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools make the process easier for new brands and help ensure your trademark is clear to register.
How to Check Logo Trademarks
If your brand identity uses a logo, you must 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 design or icon doesn’t conflict with another registered design, avoiding legal issues.
Professional Assistance for Trademark Search
While individuals can check trademarks, a legal expert brings experience to the process. Professionals:
- Understand classification systems
- Spot potential conflicts
- Suggest alternatives
- Handle the registration process
For serious businesses, professional support adds strategy and legal confidence.
From Search to Registration: Next Steps
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 examination, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.
Conclusion
An early trademark search in India is the first step in securing your identity. It public search tm ensures your name, logo or slogan are free to use, protected by law, and ready for registration.
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