ZIGNER:
The first I learned about the possibility of filing a copy of the will was when you said, "Whoa, that actually changes things. You may wish to contact a probate attorney in Georgia, because, under the right circumstances, there is a mechanism to allow you to file the copy of the will instead of the original."
I just wanted to come back and thank you specifically for telling me this. I later contacted a lawyer in Georgia for help in filling out the application, and he laughed in my face about the suggestion that this could happen. He had no idea of what you told me here.
We got the packet together and proved the will with no problem at all, saving us from dealing with an intestate situation. THANK YOU!
(Still no progress with getting the items Dad left us from his widow's house. She and I met with her accountant on a number of issues and he was kind enough to explain this to her. Due to his help, she allowed me to get Dad's checkbook, bills, and files from the business office he maintained in her home. As for the rest, her mind cannot retain nor comprehend that we have to inventory Dad's belongings. Sadly, I see no remedy to that.)
Happy holidays to all.