Common Reasons Why Trademark Applications Get Rejected

Trademark application

A trademark can be defined as the logos, designs, or words companies and startups use to set up an identity for their products and differentiate them from those of other companies. Such trademarks also help the customer or consumer relate to them and their products. Trademark registration is registering your trademark with a country's government. To begin the trademark registration process, you need to start with your trademark application process. The method of trademark applications includes multiple steps, and one of the steps is when your company's trademark is published in a trademark journal for other people to come up with objections, leading to rejections.

Mostly, companies are unable to understand the reason/s for which their trademark application gets rejected, leading them to make similar mistakes over and on. Let’s discuss some of the most common reasons trademark applications get dismissed!

To avoid the trademark application rejection you can rely on the experts of Lawgical India Business Developers Private Limited!

Common reasons why your company trademark application gets rejected

Generic terms found in your trademark application

One primary reason for rejecting your trademark application could be that it has commonly used or generic words found in your application. These generic terms could be, for instance, if you are a company selling tables, your company trademark cannot have the word “table” specifically. Since the word table is an utterly generic term, one company that is the one that has come up with this term in their trademark application cannot be given the sole right over the term, which is general for every other company that is involved in a similar business.

Deceptive trademarks in trademark applications

Deceptive trademarks in a trademark application can be defined as trademarks that deceive or mislead customers regarding the nature, quality, or geographical origin of the company. During your trademark registration process, you need to be utterly picky about the words in your trademark application so that you don’t use words that cause a sense of deception to the customers.

Descriptive terms found in your trademark application

Thirdly, you cannot submit a trademark application with your trademark being descriptive of the business that your company is involved in. For instance, if you are a beverage-based company, you cannot use the " COLD " trademark.

Marks similar to the one submitted by your company's trademark application

Many trademark applications face rejection on account of a similar company trademark being in existence already existing. Hence, you must conduct thorough research before developing or submitting your trademark application.

Usage of offensive terms in your trademark application

Lastly, your trademark application should not consist of offensive terms that question morality or public order. You should refrain from using such terms that the trademark registrar or your consumers would not like. Using plain and legitimate language during your trademark application is the key to acceptance.

Points to remember while choosing a name for your company

When you are selecting a trademark for your company, make sure-

• That trademark does not fall under any of the categories mentioned above.

• Your trademark was chosen after thorough research.

• That you get apt consultation from a trademark expert.
  
  

FAQs

1. What is a trademark, and how can Lawgical India help me with it?
A trademark is your brand’s unique identity — a name, logo, slogan, or symbol. Lawgical India helps you search, apply, and legally protect your trademark with end-to-end expert support.

2. Why should I trust Lawgical India for my trademark registration?
We’re a trusted legal tech platform offering affordable, reliable, and lawyer-backed services. Our team handles the entire trademark process — from search to registration — ensuring zero guesswork for you.

3. How do I know if my brand name is available for trademark?
Our experts conduct a detailed trademark search using government databases to check for existing or similar trademarks — minimizing the chances of rejection.

4. What documents do I need to file a trademark with Lawgical India?
You’ll need:

Logo (optional)

Brand name

Applicant details

Proof of business (like GST or MSME certificate)
Don’t worry — we’ll guide you through each step.

5. How long does Lawgical India take to file my trademark?
We usually file your application within 24–48 hours after receiving the required documents and approval.

6. What if someone objects to my trademark application?
Our legal team will assist you in responding to objections or oppositions raised by the Trademark Registry or third parties — with proper documentation and strategy.

7. Can startups or individuals register trademarks through Lawgical India?
Yes! Whether you're a startup, small business, or individual, we have affordable packages tailored to your needs.

8. What are some common mistakes Lawgical India helps me avoid?
We help you avoid:
Using generic/descriptive terms
Similar existing marks
Deceptive or offensive names
Poor documentation or incomplete filing

9. Does Lawgical India offer trademark registration across India?
Yes, we offer pan-India trademark registration — all done online. You can apply from any city with full digital support.

10. Is my trademark protected right after filing with Lawgical India?
Yes, once your trademark application is filed and you receive the acknowledgment number, you can start using the ™ symbol. Full legal protection starts after final registration, but interim protection begins from the filing date.

To have a smooth and efficient trademark application and registration process, contact Lawgical India.