Yes they need a lawyer.
It occurs to me that, if these are private loans, not federal student loans, that they may well be dischargeable in bankruptcy.
Not knowing their financial situation of course. But the dad said their credit is ruined as they have struggled with this. Their credit can’t get any worse if they declare bankruptcy, if possible.
bottom line they need legal advice.
I knew somebody whose husband died. They had a bunch of credit card debt. Some in both names, some just in the deceased husband’s name. She was responsible for all of it. She ended up declaring bankruptcy and was relieved of the debt.
I thought if it was in the dead spouse’s name only, the surviving spouse is not obligated to pay. If they left an estate, it comes out of the estate. But if not, I don’t think the spouse has to pay. Though the credit companies will try, very hard. It may depend on state laws.