It’s closing time and the pressure’s on. Even with a rock-solid offer in hand, the hard part of your home sale is yet to come. According to the National Association of Realtors, unexpected obstacles that crop up before closing delay 13% of home sales, and the thorniest issues may call for legal expertise beyond what your real estate agent can provide.

Before the ink dries on your contract, every little detail must be in perfect order, or you could get embroiled in a lawsuit down the line.

Cue the closing attorney.

While your real estate agent organizes the deal, your closing attorney acts as an extra pair of eyes to protect you and your assets at the time of closing — and long after the deal is done.

Top real estate agents and practicing attorneys who’ve witnessed legal nightmares unfold at closing agree: sellers should lawyer up. Here’s how you can take full advantage of the services your closing attorney has to offer.