losing my mom was bad enough . . .

[CC]

14. First, so sorry you lost your

mom. You've had so much to deal with and do not need the crap from your brothers. Since you have a lawyer use him. Have him guide you step by step and make all contact go through him. Any money to pay for his services should come from the estate. BTW most times a will is contested in court those that contest it lose and end up paying cost themselves. Stand up and fight for your mom's last wishes. Be honest with the lawyer and be sure to ask him things like if you take on her animals can there be a trust fund set up for their keep, food and medical. It would only be fair since you are providing a home and comfort for them. Ask if the brother is allowed to change anything or move into mom's house before he pays for it. (Bet he isn't if you don't agree.) Also the executor get a percentage of the estate for their trouble, lovingly given or not. As for the brothers wanting their price for the house I would get what they want in writing. Then get a real appraisal. Offer no more than what the appraisal is to them. When they refuse tell them fine, they can pay what they wanted for it. (Run this through the lawyer of course.) I would insist all communication be done through the lawyer. It keeps a very good record just in case and will help lighten the load on you. Oh and you need to write down everything said to you and that you say to them. I know it is hard to think when you are hurting so much but you just have too. Your brothers are counting on you not not to think things through and to give up. Stand you ground, one day you will be glad you did. Sending lots of hugs and healing thoughts.