Ask these before you sign anything. A good adviser will answer each one plainly, and in writing if you ask.
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"Are you a fiduciary at all times, for every account and every recommendation?"
You want a clear "yes," in writing. Be careful with "when I'm acting as your adviser," which usually means they also act as a broker at other times.
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"How are you and your firm paid? Does anyone other than me pay you?"
Listen for commissions, sales loads, 12b-1 fees, revenue sharing, and bonuses for selling certain products. "Fee-only" means you are the only one paying.
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"Are you, or is your firm, also registered as a broker or insurance agent?"
If yes, ask when they act in each role and how you will know which one applies. This site shows both for every person and firm.
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"What will I pay in total each year, in dollars?"
Include the adviser's fee, fund expenses, trading costs, and anything else. A percent sounds small; a dollar figure is easier to judge.
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"Who holds my money?"
Your money should sit with an independent custodian (a large brokerage or bank) that sends statements straight to you. You should never write a check to the adviser personally.
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"Do you have any disciplinary history, complaints, or legal problems?"
Then check for yourself: the person's page here shows whether anything is on record, and the SEC's page has the details.
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"What happens if I want to leave?"
Ask about exit fees, surrender charges on products they recommend, and how easy it is to move your accounts.