Unless the five properties were put in joint names, too, someone will have to open probate. The personal representative has the power to investigate and try to recover the other assets. If those properties will be in probate, and they have value, then a lawyer for the personal representative would be paid out of the estate. Basically, if you don't get a lawyer in this case, the kid who moved fast and cleverly is going to win it all.
Answered on Nov 15th, 2013 at 1:27 PM