The Growing Craze About the public search of trade marks
The Growing Craze About the 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 applied or approved trademarks in the official database run by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps determine whether your proposed trademark is available or if it overlaps with any existing mark.
Performing a trademark search early in the branding process minimises the risk of infringement and ensures your trademark identity remains distinctive 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 protecting your brand. A careful search lets you:
- Steer clear of already-used marks
- Save money from rejected applications
- Prevent future disputes
- Preserve distinctiveness
- Speed up the registration process
Without adequate checking, your trademark application might be opposed, wasting time and resources.
How to Check a Trade Mark in India?
The Trade Marks Registry maintains an official platform where anyone can run a trademark search. To search:
- Access the Trade Marks Registry website
- Navigate to the public search section
- Type your brand name or logo text
- Select the correct class
- Browse the list
This platform gives you visibility into both approved marks and pending applications, so you know where your brand stands.
Understanding Trademark Classes
Each trademark belongs to 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.
Phonetic and Wordmark Searches
When checking for trademark availability, do both wordmark and phonetic searches. A wordmark search looks for same or close spellings. A phonetic search finds names that sound alike, even if spelled in a different way.
This ensures 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, government search tool. There are also external platforms that offer extra features like:
- Search filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools make the check trade mark process easier for startups and give confidence that your trademark is clear to register.
Trademark Search for Logo and Device Marks
If your brand identity uses a logo, you’ll need to 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 symbol or logo doesn’t infringe on another registered design, avoiding legal issues.
Why Hire a Trademark Consultant?
While individuals can check trademarks, 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.
From Search to Registration: Next Steps
Once your search confirms the mark is available, you can start the application process. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Selecting classes
- Submitting payments
The process then enters review, publication, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.
Conclusion
A thorough trademark search in India is the most important step in protecting your brand. It ensures your brand assets are free to use, 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 starts with a strong foundation. Report this page