tofu

"""But to determine who is actually qualified, you need to know a whole lot yourself.  By that time, you are probably qualified yourself."""
it is partly truth.  other major factors are time & resources.  how much time would you like to spend on monitor the markets & do your own research?  the big co. have ton of people to do the research & analysis, do you have that much backup?  so why not talk to some investors.

tofu

as a normal person, unless you are a full-time trader, who will have time to do all these after working for a full-time job, taking care of a family & socializing with friends.  if really no time, don't invest, i beleive 90% of the people need to get out of the market.  
you should start a post and ask for good adviser recommendation , just like those one whose haven't find a good doctor, bodyshop or photographer yet.  there are good/bad people out there, no matter where do they work.