What are my rights and what can I do and is it in my best interest to contest the will

You cant contest the will just because you are being bullied. There must be valid grounds such undue influence, fraud, unsound mind, etc. Consult...

For probate/administration in Queens County NY, should one aim to work with a lawyer based in Queens?

An attorney with an office in NYC is often familiar with the Surrogate's Court in all surrounding counties. Typically an attorney based in Suffolk/...

What are my options

Contact an estate lawyer on avvo. Forty percent sounds excessive. You can find a better deal.

Is this a reason to file a lawsuit?

Sounds like a potentially viable lawsuit.

How long it takes to file for bankruptcy?

Very strange. It typically takes s few days to gather the documents and file the petition and schedules. You should request a refund and find a new...

Should I sign the Receipt and Release for zero dollars? What does it all mean and what is the purpose to which it serves?

No, how can you sign the release of you have not seen the assets of the estate( if any) and any distributions. Request that they provide you with...

It doesn't sound excessive. It all depends on the complexity of the document, the number of beneficiaries involved, if any assets needs to be...

What is the official definition of Surrogate Court Practice as a field practice of law?

Sounds like a keyword they use to rank better on Google. Its not a practice area, just a search engine keyword potential clients type on Google.

VI am about to be married. What safeguard may I put in place to ensure the house I own prior to my marriage goes only to my son

In addition to the prenuptial agreement and right of election waiver, you should make a Will. If you have no will at the time of death, the house...

How do I access the contents of the Will prior to the reading? Should I apply for co executor? Should I also retain a lawyer.

As previously mentioned, if your sister has officially started probate proceedings, the Will must have been filed with the Surrogate's Court in the...