Why bother with a search?

The first step in the trade mark registration process is to complete a thorough trade mark search. This will eliminate the chance that the trade mark (or brand) that you have chosen is not already registered. Be sure to contact an agent for a complete trade mark research and registration service. A trade mark search, although optional, is a vital part of the process. It is through the searching process that we can reveal whether your proposed trade mark is capable of registration. The raison d'etre of the search is to ascertain whether or not there exists an identical or similar trade mark that has already been registered.

If you do not carry out a search then you are applying for a trade mark 'blind' and significantly increase the risk of losing the cost of your application.

The search may also allow us to identify the likelihood of your proposed trade mark being registered. This may be based on any other earlier application oppositions from examiners and recent case law.

Therefore if you are considering filing for a trade mark, we strongly advise that you allow an agent is instructed to conduct a search on your behalf.

To conduct a search we will require from you a brief description of your product (the goods or services) together with its use within your industry. This will assist us when we advise upon the appropriate area for you to seek protection.