How to avoid design patent issues when importing home decoration items?

DO NOT mention any company name here, but if you know the name of the company you think has a design patent that could help focus your search.

If I have a cartoonish copy of a picture that replicates a picture from a famous company, like Tiffany & Co., can I sell it?

While there may remain a trademark issue, there could also be a copyright issue depending on the content of the original. It's date will be important

Much of the automotive fluid flush equipment seems to be very similar, do I need to patent mine or avoid building similar tools?

Good answers above. Some amplification, to maybe clarify things and address your questions: (1) whether you have your own patent makes absolutely...

If I see a product that representes my utilty patent which has been closely duplicated after signing nondisclosure . advise plz

In addition to the remarks above, get your facts in order. What are the specific dates for your conception of the invention and submission of the...

How can Hollywood have trademark rights to the image of the Hollywood sign

Another twist -- the other attorney answers are good ones -- is that the word "Hollywood" is also geographical. Those are particularly unusual...

Can I use an existing brand name for a completely different product in a different industry?

If it is a famous mark then you risk a trademark dilution situation. Better to develop your own brand.

Would it be smart to trademark my company name before the company grows too big?

Assuming no one else has already registered (search www.uspto.gov at a minimum, registration gives you valuable rights. For Federal registration...

It seems unlikely you could legally import to the US or resell fakes in the US. I suppose that theoritcally you could 'buy' them and own a bunch...