Applying for PR by using the 1 year point system

Hello everyone — I’m planning to apply for PR soon using the new points-based system and I have a few questions. Thanks in advance for any guidance.

1. I reached 80+ points this year because my income increased. Since the requirement says 3 years with 70+ or 1 year with 80+ points, does that mean I can apply now based only on this year’s record, even though I’ve been in Japan for over 3 years but only hit around 60 points before?

2. I’m currently on an Engineer/Specialist in Humanities visa. I’ve seen conflicting information online — some sources say you must switch to a Highly Skilled Professional visa first, while others say applying directly from the engineering visa is fine. Which is correct?

3. For those who’ve done it: do you recommend using a lawyer? I speak Japanese and feel like I could handle the process myself, but I’m wondering if hiring a lawyer makes a significant difference. If you recommend one, why?

Thanks a lot for your help.