Recently my father died.  He left the bulk of his assets to his wife (not my mother).  Before he died, he wanted to leave me $20,000 which was to be paid out his estate.  His wife had a document drawn up stating his wishes, which she signed and had notarized.  My father and wife reside in NM, I am located in MI.  I do have a copy of the above document which clearly states the amount my father wanted me to have at the time of his death.  Now the wife informs me that she is unable to pay me the money because she does not have it to pay.  Please keep in mind that my father turned over approximately $184,000.00 to her before his death.  My questions are:  (1) is the document she had notarized legally binding in a court of law and, (2) if she refuses to pay me the $20,000 can I attach a lein to her house in the amount of $20,000?  Help!  I do not know if I should hire an attorney (I have limited income) but at the same time, I need the money that was promised to me.
 
Thank you for your help.