"To pay a professional" means to give money to someone who has expertise and skills in a certain field, in exchange for their services or advice. Full definition
And if you have a few tax questions, consider paying a professional for their advice. (moneysense.ca)
You're not paying a professional editor in order to hear how awesome your book is. (livewritethrive.com)
Lawyers are among the highest paid professionals in the legal industry and most attorneys earn salaries well above the national average. (thebalancecareers.com)