Trademark Search It is now a pre-requisite in most jurisdictions that a trademark search must be conducted prior to filing an application. This search will reveal whether or not the proposed mark is already in use and will also reveal any prior registered identical marks. The rationale for the search is to minimize incidences of costly and protracted objection proceedings.

Procedure

Upon filing an application, a formal examination will be conducted by the Trademark Office to establish whether the mark is eligible for registration under the legal regime. Thereafter, a System Search will be conducted to determine whether there are similar trademarks on the Register. The Registrar will thereafter issue an Examination Report, granting the filing, refusing the filing or provisional acceptance if certain conditions are fulfilled.