---
title: "How to trial an adviser without buying a retainer"
slug: "comparisons/how-to-trial-an-adviser-without-buying-a-retainer"
section: "Comparisons"
description: "Send an anonymised two page case with two plausible hypotheses, one conflicting fact and a deadline. Pay for a bounded sample review if required; evaluate "
internal_only: false
---

# How to trial an adviser without buying a retainer

Send an anonymised two-page case with two plausible hypotheses, one conflicting fact and a deadline. Pay for a bounded sample review if required; evaluate whether the adviser explicitly states what they *do not know*, asks for missing information, and gives reasons that might overturn their preference. Take references describing a real disagreement, not merely a positive personal relationship. Score candidates with the independent adviser evidence scorecard.