[jeremyjh]

Most of them are simply salesmen, selling high-load products. Incentives are not aligned, but if you can find one is who independent of any particular set of funds and who only earns from a percentage of your earnings, and not from brokerage fees or commissions, then it might be worthwhile but you should still learn about this stuff yourself.

[mr_spothawk]

^^ seconded. I've lost a windfall to an investment manager.

my business partner is all about liability insurance, and has had to use it.

to the OP, re: "should I donate it?"

yes, but not all of it. buy potting soil & sow some seeds somewhere.

also, to the point about investing generally... seems like maybe we're at a top, so pick something stable

[zip1234]

There are different types of advisers. People often get burned because broker dealers, stockbrokers, and insurance agents do not have fiduciary responsibility (they do not need to act in your best interest). A fee only adviser (with fiduciary responsibility, which will only charge you a fixed fee is a solid choice and worthwhile to keep you out of trouble.

[Dirlewanger]

Yup, this is why if you really want to be hands-off with your wealth and put it in the hands of an independent professional, look for FEE BASED financial advisors/wealth planners. Finding one via NAPFA is one's best bet.