Article to Know on public search tm and Why it is Trending?
Article to Know on public search tm and Why it is Trending?
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Trademark Search in India: How to Check and Find Trade Marks Easily and Effectively
What is a Trademark Search?
A trademark search means reviewing existing applied or approved trademarks in the government-maintained database hosted by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This procedure helps verify whether your chosen trademark is free to use or if it interferes with any existing mark.
Conducting a trademark search at the beginning of 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 in advance of application is not just wise—it’s essential 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 adequate checking, your trademark application might be opposed, wasting time and resources.
Steps to Do a Trademark Check in India
The Trade Marks Registry offers an official platform where anyone can do a trademark search. To search:
- Access the Trade Marks Registry website
- Open the public search section
- Type your brand name or logo text
- Choose the correct class
- Browse the list
This tool gives you visibility into both approved marks and pending applications, so you know where your brand stands.
What Are Trademark Classes?
Each trademark is grouped into 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, a clothing label 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, run 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 catch trademarks that could cause conflicts, giving you better security before applying.
Resources and Platforms for Trade Mark Checks
The Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trade Marks provides a free, official search tool. There are also private platforms that offer advanced features like:
- Search filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools make the process easier for startups and help ensure your trademark is clear to register.
How to Check Logo Trademarks
If your trademark includes a logo, you’ll need to perform a device mark search. Searching logos is more complex than wordmark searches, but the Registry portal supports visual filters and keyword tagging.
This ensures your symbol or logo doesn’t match another registered design, keeping your brand safe.
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 peace of mind.
Post-Search Steps: Filing Your Trademark
Once your search confirms the mark is clear, you can file your trademark. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Choosing categories
- Paying government fees
The process then enters review, trademark search journal listing, 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 most important step in protecting your brand. It ensures your brand assets are unique, 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