What to do after you hit the Mega Millions jackpot

Lottery players across the country are dreaming about potential riches with the multistate Mega Millions jackpot at a record half-billion dollars.

So how will you protect your winnings -- and your sanity -- if you're really, really lucky in Friday's drawing?

Experts say whoever wins will face a lot of important decisions in a short amount of time.

Oklahoma City attorney Richard Craig's firm has represented lottery winners. He says it's essential to assemble a team of financial managers, tax experts, accountants and bankers.

Most lawyers and financial experts also say it's important to keep a low profile to protect your winnings.

Author Don McNay has written about lottery winners who've lost their jackpot quickly. He says most go through their money in five years or less.