I'm actually thinking I need all three: A financial planner (that's probably the more correct term than 'advisor') to help me understand what my options are for both the restaurant's and my own finances; an accountant to review the financial statements, etc; and a lawyer for all the contractual issues. I'm talking to two financial planners and trying to decide between them. One of them has recommended an accountant, and I also have a neighborhood acquaintance who's a CPA that I've been trying to get in touch with (and, of course, I'm doing this during tax season ). I also talked to a bank loan officer today. Still haven't been able to get any referrals for a lawyer, though, but I've got a ways to go before I've plowed through all the financial aspects of this.

Thanks for the suggestion, Running Mommy, and I'll take any others you might want to throw my way. I haven't really talked to Mr. Silver here at TE, but he definitely seems like a level-headed guy. Mr. Silver, if you read this, you may very well be hearing from me...