How can I review her will, and how do I know what my step brothers wife is doing with my bag of jewelry?

You are in a difficult situation, which is not uncommon. It may be that your mother's assets were held jointly with your step-father, and...

What is the proper course of action for will, would will even be ruled legal?

You need to meet with a probate attorney who can review the Will and advise you whether or not it is effective. I suggest that you do this right...

Can a widow in FL ignore the 50-50 law?

You need an attorney right away to protect your rights.

What is my rights as a bank beneficiary, if not beneficiaries are found? Can't I get my portion and my brother's?

The bank should release your share immediately. Try speaking with a different banker or go to a different branch. This often results in a...

Assuming your mother was the only signer on the lease, return the car to the lease company and get a receipt. They will sell the car and the may...

Can the Trustee make me leave when i own 20%.

Based on your description you are both a 20% beneficiary of the house under trust, and you are also a legal resident of the house. As a legal...

Can the donations be credited to/used by any of the children instead, if we are able to itemize vs take the std deduction?

It seems that your mother made her donations for the benefit they would convey to others, and not for the benefit that she would receive (in the...

Please help us understand how primary & second homes are handled tax-wise (for exclusions, etc) under a Trust vs outside one.

It seems that your question is focused on tax implications, so that is where I will focus my answer. IRC Section 121 provides for the exclusion of...

Can I initiate litigation proceedings on my brother’s behalf without opening probate.

You are currently the nominated executor with no authority to act until the probate has been opened and you have been appointed by the court. If...

Can I claim my mother in-law as a dependent as a dependent on my taxes considering that I do support her 100%?

Your mother-in-law would meet the definition of a "qualifying relative" (and therefore a dependent of yours) if she meets three tests: (1)...