signed contract for property ins. claim verdict won but appealled what do I do?

I feel I should be able to dismiss the lawsuit I signed on spouses contingency contract to appear in court as he was in Hospice care. I was under stress and forgot to sign durable Power Of Attorney atfer my name. Spouse died from a Brain Tumor 36 hrs after verdict won in his favor. I am being told by his Lawyer that since I'm listed on homeowner Insurance policy I must sign appealate contract or be face with his costs and fees which are stated in the contract I signed. I am currant on the mortgage but I am only on the deed to home not on the mortgage note nor do I want to be on it as eventually I will have to walk away from it if settlement only pays for repairs not to pay off mortgage so I can sell it. It has a sinkhole and not worth what is owed on it. I have tried free consultations by phone to get better advice as my husbands Attorney doesn't send paperwork he's receiving to me by mail unless I ask for it . He has been hard to reach and take a long time to return ph. calls