When you go be prepared with as much information as you have available. Death certificates (brother and mother), copies of brother's 401(k) statements, addresses, and anything else associated with the 401(k). Be prepared to be proactive because there is a good chance that no one will talk to you about this. So, you need to pressure them to at least tell you if there was a beneficiary listed for the account (even if they don't tell you who it is). It was most likely not sister-in-law or she would now have the money. Then ask them step by step what they will require you to do to get the money released. Have them write it down.
How far away is Houston? A phone call before you go might really help. You will need to get to the right person in your conversation, keep trying. Find out exactly what you need to bring with you for your conversation. If they won't talk to you in specific terms, at least get as much generic information as possible about the steps they will require.
Did brother have any other assets? What are they .... a house? a car? Most likely you will be looking at probate for both brother and mother depending on what assets are involved. You will very likely need an attorney.
How far away is Houston? A phone call before you go might really help. You will need to get to the right person in your conversation, keep trying. Find out exactly what you need to bring with you for your conversation. If they won't talk to you in specific terms, at least get as much generic information as possible about the steps they will require.
Did brother have any other assets? What are they .... a house? a car? Most likely you will be looking at probate for both brother and mother depending on what assets are involved. You will very likely need an attorney.