No service nor sympathy from ABSA National Deceased Estates Division

Despite our lawyers best efforts, ABSA National Deceased Estates has not yet paid out the miniscule amount from my late mother's very uncomplicated estate. We attempted to close my mother's savings account after her passing, and were told there was a very small death benefit on the ABSA account. All documents were lodged, as required, and to date, 10 months later, no finalization. Was ABSA hoping that the "benefit" was too much trouble to claim and would remain in their account? The entire matter seems to have been treated with disdain and disrespect by ABSA.