Do I need some sort of financial advisor? [View all]

[not fooled]

I need to make investment decisions having to do with retirement. Never have used a financial planner or done much with investing before. Am in the process of educating myself, including reading e.g. Jane Bryand Quinn's and Suze Orman's books on retirement, Paul Merriman's stuff, etc.

Earlier this week had 1 meeting with an "investment advisor" recommended by an attorney I've used. The guy is not a CFP or fiduciary and was evasive when I asked how he would be compensated (he mentioned commissions on the products but not ongoing charges which I am sure would be incurred). He's drawing up a plan for me which I want to see but it's unlikely I will be using him.

Can I educate myself and handle investing my retirement money by myself? Or e.g. use a fee-only fiduciary to help in the initial phase, then take it from there? There seem to be rather standard guidelines on what to do at each life stage, and I really, really don't trust the financial services industry to have my best interests at heart. I am willing to spend however long it takes educating myself but don't want to make mistakes that could have been avoided if I had consulted some sort of professional.

And, any recommendations on good resources or books to read?

Thanks.