“You are not required to cut off your sister because her stepson dislikes the relationship,” she said.

“But you should make decisions calmly and document them.”

I asked how much her advice would cost.

She named a reasonable consultation fee.

I stared at my checkbook for so long that she closed it gently.

“This first appointment has been paid for by a community legal assistance fund,” she said.

“Spencer asked whether there was a way to keep your interests independently represented.

My duty is to you, not Evelyn.”