design protection in the USA

[Kazulin]

I would appreciate your comments regarding protecting designs in the USA. Our designs are
protected and patented in Canada but I would be interested in educating myself on design protection in the US. Prior to speaking with lawyers, I would appreciate your hands-on experience and knowledge which would allow me to address "real" issues upon contacting and spending $$ on lawyers.
I know that lawyers will come into play but the more you know the less expensive the fees will be...
By the way, we design and manufacture our own line of boats.
Thank you in advance for your input.
Marice