What steps are involved in the trademark application process in Germany after it has been submitted?

Once a trademark application is submitted in the European Union, it goes through an examination by the trademark authorities. They check for compliance with formal requirements, proper classification, and ensure the trademark is not deceptive, unclear, descriptive, or lacking distinctiveness. If the application meets these criteria, its details are published online. This includes the trademark itself, the applicant's name and address, the application date, the goods or services it covers, and any priority or seniority claims. During this publication period, others can oppose the trademark before it is officially registered.