Need recommendations for masonry work in New Jersey

I’m planning some exterior work on my property and am trying to figure out whether I should hire a general contractor or look specifically for a masonry specialist. The project may involve some brick repairs and possibly rebuilding part of a small retaining wall. I’ve never hired anyone for this type of work before, so I’m mainly interested in what I should check when comparing contractors. Has anyone here worked with a good NJ masonry contractor, and what questions did you ask before hiring them?