What happens when a mother of 3 dies, and they do not want to go to the father? He has a history of alcoholism and has been in jail resently. The sister and her husband are willing to take the children in custody, and the kids want this to happen. What are the options? They do not have enough money for fancy lawyers. HELP

The aunt need to go to court immediately to request temporary guardianship. Once that is awarded, she will need to file for custody and later on (maybe) to adopt. Depending on the ages, the children's preferences may be listened to.

With the father's history this shouldn't be difficult. Especially if the father doesn't fight it.

You don't need "fancy" lawyers. At the most you may just need a paralegal to prepare the court petition.