@Lymen not sure what to tell more as you know they reinstate if they think they should. My husband's father passed away which is why we requested this and it worked. I echo the same that change your lawyer. In terms of email, you would need to send them message via USCIS account. Plus when you request for reinstate, you need to send letters and supporting evidence (details are on uscis website). Our case was like we were waiting for interview date at embassy and that time his father passed away so it was really at last stage so i guess they considered plus all of our family members are residing in usa. We pointed out all of these things when requested for a reinstatement. You can do it yourself like we did instead lawyers. Also make sure that you put your name down as beneficiary and i guess your brother would be substitute petitioner...make it very clear in your letter. Hope this helps