My mother recently died also (May 2011) and my sister was designated Executor. The lawyers do all the work and then notify the Executor and us, as heirs, when appropriate.
The estate is still being settled since it was complicated so we have several more months of fussing around. But we know what’s been done, what monies have been distributed to whom and what work is remaining.
NO info since March 2010 is unacceptable and you have every legal and moral right to make a BIG NOISE. Personally, I would contact the lawyer.
All of the heirs, including me and the seven grandchildren can, should, and have called or emailed the
lawyers who are handing the estate whenever there are questions.
My sister’s primary job has been to sign documents and get her signature notarized. She has no powers to sign checks unless they have been authorized, such as paying for some funeral, headstone, and memorial service costs. She submitted stuff like the catering bill to the lawyer and he released the monies.
You as an heir, have every right to demand an accounting for estate fees and legal fees as well. Our family talks to each other so it has been smooth sailing. Don’t wait another minute.
If the lawyer is boondoggling, his fees will mount and eat into the 35K.