Will, Trusts and Estate

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[dee_dub]

On our visits he would proudly show us a copy of his will

the only time we saw this will was when he showed it to us on his computer. We are not sure what happens now.

A will on a computer is not a valid will. It needs to have been printed, signed, and witnessed (in line with whatever the rules are in your jurisdiction).

What happens now is you contact the probate court and see whether that will that was on the computer is in fact his last will and is being probated.

Would the heirs be notified? Would the will/trust have to be probated?

Yes, and almost certainly for an estate with the value you allege.

How long does an executor have to probate a will and do they have to by Idaho law?

It varies. Consult an Idaho estates attorney.

Since this executor (stepmother) is in charge of the estate are there laws to make her accountable to safeguard the estate and distribute the estate according to my fathers wishes, or can she simply give money away to her family?

Yes there are. If she simply gives away the money in breach of the terms of the will, she will be held accountable and the beneficiaries may be able to trace the funds and claim it back from the people who unlawfully received it.

If she is the executor is'nt this a conflict of interest?

Not necessarily, and not usually. The executor is commonly also a beneficiary.

Do heirs have a right to a copy of the will? If so how do you get a copy?

Probably. Contact the probate court, or just call the executor and ask for it.