Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

There's no mention in your question of a probate proceeding or the existence of an executor or administrator of the will. Usually, the handling of a will requires a probate proceeding in which someone is placed in charge as executor or administrator and must make reports and (unless excused by the maker of the will) post a bond. I think a lawyer stepping in here on your behalf would first want more background information, chiefly (1) status of the probate proceedings, if any; and (2) status of legal title to the house as reflected in the county records.

Additional questions would involve the extent to which the re-distribution of the mother-in-law's estate was placed in writing, and the quality of documentary evidence of these deals being made. Such evidence might exist in formal written agreements, reports of the executor, and the like, or, less satisfactorily, in e-mails, informal letters, canceled checks, bank statements, and the like.

Then, there is a possible statute-of-limitations problem. A right to sue must be pursued within a particular time frame after the right first arises. For oral contracts, a suit must be brought within two years of the date of breach, for example. I think any limitations problem could be surmounted here, but it would be a factor in planning litigation.

It's certainly possible that the in-laws would become more honest when confronted by the possibility of suit, or a letter from a lawyer who has done an investigation. Otherwise, a lawsuit can be designed and filed, based on facts developed upon further investigation.

Her options are the same as with any dispute, either resolve the situation informally by negotiation, or file suit to protect and assert her rights, if still within the statute of limitations. If serious about hiring counsel to help in this for consultation or litigation, feel free to contact me. I�ll be happy to help