Trademark Registration in Chennai: A Simple Guide In today’s competitive world, your brand is everything. Whether it's your logo, name, slogan, or even a unique design, it represents your business identity. That’s why protecting it with Trademark Registration is so important.
What is a Trademark? A trademark is a unique symbol, word, phrase, logo, or design that sets your product or service apart from others. It helps customers recognize and trust your brand. For example, think of the Nike "swoosh" or Apple’s bitten apple logo — those are famous trademarks. Although trademark registration in India is not mandatory under the Trade Marks Act, 1999, registration serves as a strong legal proof of ownership and commercial value for your brand. Trademark registration is valid for a period of 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely by applying to the registrar.
Who Can Apply for Trademark Registration? Anyone! Whether you are a: ● ● ● ● ●
Individual Startup Private Limited Company Partnership Firm NGO or Trust
As long as you're using or planning to use a brand name/logo for business, you can apply.
Why Should You Register a Trademark? While you can use a brand name without registering it, registration gives you exclusive legal rights to use it. Here's why it's a smart move: ● ● ● ● ●
✅ Prevents others from copying your brand ✅ Builds trust and credibility ✅ Adds value to your business ✅ Helps in expansion or franchising ✅ Gives you legal protection in case of disputes
Steps to Register a Trademark in India Here’s how the process usually works: 1. Trademark Search Before you apply, it’s a good idea to check if your brand name or logo is already in use. This helps avoid rejection later. 2. File the Application Once your brand name is clear, you can file the trademark application (Form TM-A) with the government. 3. Application Review The Trademark Office examines your application. If everything is okay, it moves to the next step. 4. Publication in Trademark Journal Your trademark is published to invite objections (if any) from the public. 5. Trademark Registration Certificate If no objections are raised (or if resolved), your trademark gets registered, and you’ll receive a Certificate of Registration.
Documents Required for Trademark Registration in India 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Trademark/Logo/Wordmark Applicant’s Details Details of Goods or Services Power of Attorney (Form TM-48) Individual or Sole Proprietorship Partnership Firm / LLP Private Limited / Limited Company / OPC Trust or Society Optional Documents (If Applicable)
How Long Does It Take? Trademark registration can take 6 to 18 months, depending on objections, oppositions, and workload at the Trademark Office. But once your application is filed, you can start using the ™ symbol right away.
After approval, you can use the ® symbol to show your trademark is officially registered.
Validity of Trademark A registered trademark is valid for 10 years and can be renewed every 10 years — so it can last forever with timely renewal!
How Kanakkupillai Can Help Kanakkupillai makes trademark registration easy, affordable, and hassle-free. Our experts handle: ● ● ● ● ●
Trademark search Filing of the application Regular follow-ups Objection handling (if any) Final registration and renewal support
Final Thoughts Trademark registration is a smart investment in your brand’s future. It gives your business a legal edge, boosts trust, and protects what you’ve worked hard to build. If you're ready to protect your brand, Kanakkupillai is here to help every step of the way.
