Trademark Law Firm in India — Registration, Opposition & Litigation

Typically 18 to 24 months from filing. The timeline includes examination (3–12 months), publication in the Trade Marks Journal (opposition period of 4 months), and issuance of the registration certificate. Our clients often achieve faster outcomes because we respond to examination reports quickly, reducing delays.

The current government fee is ₹4,500 per class for individuals, startups and small enterprises, and ₹9,000 per class for companies and LLPs. If you operate in multiple product or service categories, you need to file in each relevant class. We provide transparent pricing with no hidden charges.

The ™ symbol can be used immediately after filing your application — it signals that you are claiming rights over the mark. The ® symbol can only be used after your trademark is officially registered by the Trade Marks Registry. Using ® before registration is an offence under the Trade Marks Act, 1999.

Yes. India allows intent-to-use trademark applications. You can file before launching your brand or product. However, if the mark is not used within a reasonable period after registration, it may become vulnerable to cancellation on non-use grounds. We advise clients on the strategic use of intent-to-use filings.

The Registry issues an examination report detailing the objections — these may be absolute grounds (descriptive mark, prohibited mark) or relative grounds (similarity to an existing mark). You must file a reply within 30 days (extendable). If the response is unsatisfactory, a hearing is scheduled. Our trademark lawyers have a strong record in overcoming objections.

India follows the Nice Classification system with 45 classes — 34 for goods (Classes 1–34) and 11 for services (Classes 35–45). Each application covers one class; you must file separate applications for multiple classes. Common examples: Class 9 (software and technology), Class 35 (business services), Class 41 (education), Class 42 (IT services).

Yes. Foreign companies can register trademarks in India either through direct filing at the Indian Trade Marks Registry or via the Madrid Protocol (if India is a designated country in the international application). India became a member of the Madrid Protocol in 2013. We assist international clients and Delhi NCR-based foreign subsidiaries with both routes.

A registered trademark in India is valid for 10 years from the date of application. It can be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods by paying the renewal fee. Our trademark renewal service ensures you never miss a deadline — we remind clients well before the renewal due date.

Passing off is a common law remedy that protects unregistered trademarks. If someone uses a name, logo or mark that causes confusion with your established brand — even if you have not registered the trademark — you can bring a passing off action in court. Lex Legalizer handles both trademark infringement suits (for registered marks) and passing off actions (for unregistered marks).