Retain a good probate atty to assist you in this matter. If the money is in escrow you're probably going to need a good advocate in your corner.

Is there probable cause to have my Dad involuntarily committed? I believe he is on hard drugs and is mentally unstable.

Most states require a doctor's letter stating if in their opinion the person has issues that require court intervention. You need to consult with...

What can I do to get that money?

Ask a local atty to review the facts.

So, can I tell the estate attorney to back off & I will handle it without their help, this portfolio has NOTHING to do with them

Why not just ask them these questions. They are your attys, correct?

If a person is named Executor in will, doesn't he have to officiate it at the Courthouse?

If your brother is a joint owner or beneficiary on the checking account then yes, he could use it...its his. If the acct was just in dad's name...

You need to retain your own atty to see if you should apply to be appointed if your brother refuses to produce the will.

The IRS requires the SSN for any person seeking this position.

What are the steps that must be taken to settle the estate? She had a retirement, CD and checking account.

The first step is to see if the accounts had either beneficiaries or joint owners. If so, those folks would get the assets. If not, then a...

Should I continue to send the SNF payments or should I wait til after the court date to see what happens?

So is he saying he has no more of her money? Where does her SS go? I think you need to explore that issue quickly to save yourself the stress...

Can we avoid a penalty

You really need a local atty in NY to fully answer this question. Someone who can see all the facts and deal with them.