How to Register a Trademark in Indore – Step-by-Step Guide by Sonisvision LLP

WHAT IS A TRADEMARK?

A trademark is a type of intellectual property that consists of any word, phrase, symbol, design, or combination of these elements that identifies and distinguishes the source of the goods or services of one party from those of others. A trademark is essentially a brand identifier; it helps consumers recognize and differentiate between products or services in the marketplace.

TYPES OF TRADEMARKS:

Trademarks can take various forms:

• Word marks (e.g., brand names like “Adidas”)
• Logos or symbols (e.g., Apple’s apple logo)
• Sounds (e.g., the NBC chimes)
• Colours (in some cases, like Tiffany Blue)
• Shapes or packaging designs (also called trade dress)

IMPORTANCE OF TRADEMARK REGISTRATION IN INDIA

1. Exclusive Rights to Use
Securing a trademark legally grants the owner the exclusive authority to use the mark in connection with specific goods or services. This protection ensures that no other party can lawfully use the same or a confusingly similar mark, safeguarding the distinctiveness of your brand identity.

2. Strengthens Brand Identity and Market Recognition
A registered trademark enhances your brand’s visibility and helps foster loyalty among customers. It acts as a symbol of quality and consistency, allowing consumers to associate your mark with trust and reliability over time.

3. Legal Recourse Against Unauthorized Use
A registered trademark equips you with the right to take legal action against anyone who imitates or uses your mark without permission. In case of infringement, the law allows you to seek remedies and damages, helping you maintain brand integrity in a competitive marketplace.

4. Public Notice to Deter Copycats
Trademark registration is publicly accessible in the Indian Trademark Registry, making your rights visible to others. This public record acts as a deterrent, warning others not to adopt a mark that closely resembles yours to avoid legal disputes.

5. Boosts Commercial Opportunities
Trademarks are valuable intangible assets. Once registered, they can be sold, franchised, licensed, or transferred, providing income opportunities and aiding expansion. A strong trademark also attracts investors and strategic partners by increasing brand credibility.

6. All-India Coverage
Trademark protection is not limited to the region where it is used—it applies throughout India. This nationwide safeguard is essential for businesses aiming to operate or scale operations across multiple states.

7. Gateway to Global Registration
An Indian trademark registration can be the starting point for international filings through the Madrid Protocol. This streamlines the process of obtaining protection in various countries, benefiting businesses with global plans.

8. Long-Term Legal Shield
Trademarks in India are valid for ten years from the application date. They can be renewed every decade indefinitely, as long as they are actively used and renewed on time, offering ongoing brand protection.

9. Enhances Business Image and Trust
For emerging businesses, having a registered trademark signals professionalism. It demonstrates that the company is serious about protecting its brand, which builds trust among customers, investors, and collaborators.

10. Helps Safeguard Digital Presence
In today’s online landscape, a registered trademark assists in securing domain names, social media profiles, and combating digital misuse. It empowers brand owners to challenge counterfeit goods or misleading content across platforms effectively.

PROCESS OF TRADEMARK REGISTRATION IN INDORE

Here is how the registration process unfolds with Sonisvision Corporates LLP:

1. Conducting a Trademark Availability Search
Before proceeding, a preliminary search is essential to ensure your desired mark isn’t already in use or registered. This search, done via the IP India portal (ipindia.gov.in)), reduces the chances of future objections or conflicts.

2. Submitting the Application
After confirming the trademark’s availability, the next step is to apply online through the IP India portal or file physically at the INDORE Trademark Office. Application Form TM-A must include applicant details, the mark, product/service class, and a Power of Attorney if filed via a representative.

3. Receiving the Application Number
Once the application is submitted, a unique application number is generated. This number is used for tracking progress and indicates the trademark is under review. At this stage, the trademark can be used with the “TM” symbol.

4. Review by the Trademark Examiner
A trademark officer evaluates the application to ensure it meets the legal criteria. The mark is checked for uniqueness and any conflicts with existing trademarks. If concerns arise, an examination report is issued listing the objections.

5. Response to Objections
If the application faces objections, the applicant must submit a written response within the designated timeframe. If the reply satisfies the examiner, the application moves forward. Otherwise, a hearing may be scheduled.

6. Publication in the Trademark Journal
If the mark passes the examination, it gets published in the Trademark Journal. This allows any third party to view the application and raise an opposition within a four-month period if they believe the mark infringes on their rights.

7. Opposition Handling
In the event of an objection, both parties can present evidence and arguments. A hearing may be held. If the applicant's claims are upheld, the process continues; otherwise, the mark may be refused or altered based on the decision.

8. Registration and Certificate Issuance
If there is no opposition or it is resolved in the applicant’s favour, the trademark proceeds to registration. A certificate of registration is then issued, and the applicant may now use the “®” symbol to indicate full trademark protection.

9. Renewal and Validity
The registered trademark is protected for ten years from the date of application. It must be renewed before the expiry date to maintain legal protection. Timely renewals ensure continued brand ownership without interruption

To know more about this you can follow the link below:

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR REGISTRATION OF TRADEMARK

To register a trademark in Indore, you’ll need:

·        Applicant’s ID and Address proof

·        Business registration proof (GST, MSME, Partnership Deed, etc.)

·        Trademark/logo (if applicable)

·        Power of Attorney (Form TM-48)

COMMON CHALLENGES (AND HOW WE HELP)

At Sonisvision Corporates LLP, we don’t just file your trademark—we protect it:

·        Drafting replies to objections

·        Handling third-party oppositions

·        Ensuring correct documentation and classification

·        Providing expert legal consultation at every step

WHY CHOOSE SONIVISIONS CORPORATES LLP IN INDORE?

Indore is not only Madhya Pradesh’s commercial capital but also an emerging centre for startups, innovation, and brand-led businesses. At Sonisvision Corporates LLP, we understand the pulse of Indore’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem and the critical need to secure your brand identity from the outset.

With over 1,000 successful trademark filings, we’ve become a trusted legal partner for Indore’s evolving business landscape, including:

·        Startups and MSMEs building strong legal foundations for growth

·        Manufacturing, tech, and service-based businesses securing their brand and IP assets

·        Retailers, food brands, and e-commerce ventures gaining visibility in competitive markets

·        Freelancers, consultants, and creatives protecting their personal and professional identity

Our legal expertise, practical approach, and understanding of the local business environment make us the ideal choice for trademark registration and IP protection in Indore.

CONCLUSION

Your trademark is more than just a logo or name, it's the face of your business, a symbol of trust, and a key driver of customer loyalty. Protecting it is not optional, it’s essential. At Sonisvision Corporates LLP, we specialize in securing your brand identity through expert trademark registration and legal support.