A trademark clearance search helps identify earlier marks that could affect your proposed use or application. Lowry Blixseth APC offers federal and broader searches, followed by attorney analysis of the potentially conflicting marks found. The scope of a search should reflect your products, services, intended markets, and business plans.
Why an exact-name search is not enough
Conflicts can involve similar sound, appearance, meaning, or commercial impression, together with related goods or services. Marks do not have to be identical. A different spelling or a different classification number does not by itself avoid a conflict.
The USPTO Trademark Search system contains federal applications and registrations. It replaced TESS in 2023. Federal records are an important starting point, but they do not necessarily capture every business with potentially enforceable rights.
Standard federal trademark search
Our standard search focuses on pending applications and registered marks in the USPTO database. Depending on the proposed mark, the search considers exact wording, spelling variants, meanings, and phonetic similarities. We analyze potentially conflicting results in relation to the intended goods or services.
Extensive trademark search
A broader search adds selected state trademark databases, domain names, and sources of unregistered business and product names. These common-law uses can matter even when no federal registration exists. Coverage depends on available records and the agreed scope; a U.S. search does not automatically assess foreign rights.
Using the results to make a decision
Our combined search and application option starts with an extensive search and analysis. You can then discuss whether to proceed with an application, modify the proposed mark, consider another candidate, or investigate particular results further.
A search is a risk assessment, not a guarantee of registration or freedom from disputes. Information can be incomplete, and later market developments can change the analysis.
What to provide for a search
- The proposed wording and any logo, including alternative candidates.
- A specific description of products and services, customers, and sales channels.
- Where you use or plan to use the mark and your target launch date.
- Any similar brands you already know about and earlier searches you have obtained.
If you are still choosing a brand, see our guide to business names and logo protection.
Discuss your trademark
Contact Lowry Blixseth APC in Agoura Hills to discuss your brand, application, or trademark dispute.