First, my condolences.Most wills if recorded are public.  In terms of settling your husband's estate and those assets from his family's death, you really shouldn't do this on your own.  Honestly, there may be statute of limitations issues, other implications, like tax implications, which if you choose the wrong door could impact you and your husband's estate.Try www.attorneypages.com and look for an estate planning attorney in New York.  Then check his or her record at the New York State Bar.