No you do not. Joint wills are very uncommon in California. If he had his own will, she may be obligated to probate it but as you can see, wills...

There is no such thing. You can file a Petition for Probate and go in ex-parte for special letters, but based on your question, you will need an...

Probate cases are very rarely sealed. What is your basis for the request? I needs to be very compelling for the court to even consider it.

If you signed it, it is enforceable.

If you Verified the complaint, you need to send your attorney and email and ask that the facts that were not fixed be amended.

Possibly. This is a question for the server based on his specific efforts.

If she has no legal paper showing guardianship, yes you can get your kids. Be mindful of their health and well-being before doing so.

Google small estate affidavit, california.

Hard to say without knowing very specific facts and assets. With that said, it is likely she will get most if not all.

Possible both. Who is the beneficiary and when was the beneficiary designation done?