How Much Do You Know About public search tm?
How Much Do You Know About public search tm?
Blog Article
Trade Mark Search in India Made Easy: A Guide to Quick and Effective Checks
Understanding Trademark Search in India
A trademark search is about examining existing applied or approved trademarks in the central database run by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps verify whether your desired trademark is available or if it conflicts with any existing mark.
Performing a trademark search at the beginning of the branding process minimises the risk of legal violation and ensures your brand identity remains unique and legally secured.
Why is Trade Mark Search Important?
Doing a trade mark search in advance of application is not just wise—it’s critical for ensuring success. A comprehensive search lets you:
- Prevent selecting already-used marks
- Reduce costs from rejected applications
- Prevent future disputes
- Ensure your brand is unique
- Streamline 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 offers an official portal where anyone can do a trademark search. To search:
- Visit the Trade Marks Registry website
- Open the public search section
- Enter your keyword
- Select the correct class
- Browse the list
This platform gives you visibility into both approved marks and filed requests, so you know where your brand stands.
Why Trademark Classification Matters
Each trademark is grouped into 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 identical or similar spellings. A phonetic search finds names that sound alike, even if spelled in a different way.
This ensures you catch trademarks that could pose legal issues, giving you better peace of mind before applying.
Tools for Trademark Search in India
The Indian IP Office provides a free, government search tool. There are also third-party platforms that offer extra features like:
- Smart filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools simplify trademark checking for new brands and help ensure your trademark is ready to file.
Searching for Non-Text Trade Marks
If your trademark includes a logo, you’ll need to perform a visual mark check. 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 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
- Identify hidden risks
- Recommend changes
- Handle the registration process
For serious businesses, professional support adds accuracy and peace of mind.
From Search to Registration: Next Steps
Once your search confirms the mark is available, you can start the application process. This includes:
- Preparing documents
- Selecting classes
- Paying government fees
The process then enters review, journal listing, and if no objections arise, your mark is granted.
Final Thoughts on Trademark Search
A thorough trademark search in India is the most important step in protecting your brand. It ensures your name, logo trademark search or slogan are unique, 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 starts with a strong foundation. Report this page