How Much is it Worth For trade mark search india
How Much is it Worth For trade mark search india
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How to Conduct a Trademark Search in India: Simple and Effective Steps
Understanding Trademark Search in India
A trademark search is about examining existing applied or approved trademarks in the government-maintained database hosted by the Trade Marks Registry of India. This process helps verify whether your desired trademark is free to use or if it interferes with any existing mark.
Doing a trademark search before the branding process minimises the risk of legal violation and ensures your brand 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 essential for ensuring success. A comprehensive search lets you:
- Steer clear of already-used marks
- Save money from rejected applications
- Avoid legal fights
- Maintain exclusivity
- Streamline the registration process
Without adequate checking, your trademark application might be opposed, wasting time and resources.
Where and How to Search for Trade Marks in India
The Trade Marks Registry provides an official portal where anyone can run a trademark search. To search:
- Go to the Trade Marks Registry website
- Navigate to the public search section
- Enter your keyword
- Select the correct class
- Check for matches
This tool gives you visibility into both approved marks 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 relevant.
For example, a clothing label usually fall under Class 25, while software tools often go under Class 9. Knowing your class 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 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 peace of public search of trade marks mind before applying.
Where to Do Trademark Searches
The CGPDTM provides a free, official search tool. There are also private platforms that offer extra features like:
- Search filters
- Expert analysis
- Trademark risk reports
These tools make the process easier for startups and give confidence that your trademark is ready to file.
Trademark Search for Logo and Device Marks
If your brand identity uses 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 design or icon doesn’t conflict with another registered design, avoiding legal issues.
Why Hire a Trademark Consultant?
While anyone can search, a legal expert brings depth to the process. Professionals:
- Know trademark law deeply
- Identify hidden risks
- Suggest alternatives
- 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 available, you can start the application process. This includes:
- Filling forms
- Choosing categories
- Submitting payments
The process then enters examination, publication, and if no objections arise, your mark is officially registered.
Conclusion
An early trademark search in India is the most important step in protecting your brand. It ensures your name, logo or slogan are unique, protected by law, 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