Trademark Clearance Searches in California
Before you invest in branding, marketing, or product development, you must be sure that your name, logo, or slogan is legally available. A trademark clearance search is the first and most critical step in protecting your brand. At SARI LAW FIRM, we help businesses across Los Angeles, Irvine, Santa Ana, Riverside, and San Diego make confident, informed decisions before filing with the USPTO.
What Is a Trademark Clearance Search?
A trademark clearance search is a professional legal process to determine whether your desired trademark is available for use and registration. It evaluates:
– Direct USPTO conflicts (identical or similar marks in the same class);
– State-registered trademarks;
– Common law trademarks (unregistered but actively used marks);
– International conflicts (for clients planning to expand abroad);
– Online presence (domain names, social handles, digital footprint).
The goal: Avoid trademark infringement and reduce your risk of receiving an office action, lawsuit, or cease & desist letter.
Our 3-Tiered Clearance Process
At SARI LAW FIRM, we go beyond basic database checks. Our proprietary Three-Tiered Clearance Process offers deep insight into your brand’s legal viability:
1. Preliminary Knockout Search
– Quick scan of USPTO for exact matches;
– Internal use to eliminate obvious conflicts;
– Low-cost, fast, and suitable for early-stage decisions.
2. Full Legal Clearance Search
– In-depth review of:
USPTO (live + dead marks),
State trademark registries (e.g., California),
Common law use (via news, web, social media),
Domain names, social handles
– Delivered with:
Attorney-written legal opinion,
Risk assessment and registrability rating,
Filing strategy recommendations.
3. International Search (Optional)
– Madrid Protocol and WIPO database checks;
– Country-specific analysis (for global brands);
– Ideal for tech, apparel, and e-commerce companies expanding abroad.
Why a Clearance Search Is Non-Negotiable
Skipping a clearance search is like building a house on someone else’s land.
Without one, you risk:
– USPTO refusal;
– Costly rebranding;
– Legal disputes or lawsuits;
– Loss of product momentum.
A professionally conducted search saves you thousands in legal risk and delays.
Why Choose SARI LAW FIRM?
– Licensed Trademark Attorneys in California;
– Real legal analysis, not automated reports;
– Hundreds of clearance opinions issued;
– Tailored risk reports & trademark class expertise;
– Trusted by businesses in Los Angeles, Orange County, Inland Empire, and San Diego.
FAQ
Can’t I just search the USPTO myself?
The USPTO’s search system (TESS) is complex and won’t catch legal conflicts like phonetic similarities or stylized logos. Our attorney-led searches assess risk like an examining attorney would.
Is a clearance search required by law?
No, but it’s strongly recommended. The USPTO doesn’t verify conflicts before you file—it only rejects you afterward. A search avoids wasted time and fees.
How long does a full clearance search take?
Typically 2–3 business days. Emergency 24-hour turnaround available upon request.
What’s included in the clearance report?
A full breakdown of conflicting marks, likelihood of confusion analysis, registrability opinion, and next-step strategy from a licensed attorney.
Does this include filing my trademark too?
Filing is a separate service, but we bundle clearance + registration for clients who want end-to-end brand protection.
Contact
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