[ossiblue]

I agree with Sammy's response in general, but it appears there may have been some fraud or violation of common law rights if Gogar's post is accurate on the nature of the relationship. An initial contact with a lawyer familiar with the laws in the state or province regarding common law relationships is, IMO, necessary. There are community property provisions as well that cannot be ignored by one party, meaning, much of what the woman "willed" to her family may not have been hers to bequeath.

Only a lawyer can sort this out and I would recommend a consultation, at the very least.