How long does it take a beneficiary to receive an annuity death benefit once the lawyer has received the paperwork?

An annuity is an insurance product that pays out income.  Some annuities allow for the payout to continue to a named beneficiary after their death.  Each company requires specific paperwork to transfer the benefit. 

By the way you have phrased the question can I am assume that "the lawyer" is the attorney helping to probate the estate?  The lawyer has to send all the paperwork in to the insurance company with various proofs.  Once the insurance company receives it then they have to review the information and process the paperwork.  I don't think that any specific time constraint can be given although I would check back periodically with the attorney to make sure that the paperwork has been sent and that everything is in order.  You do have the right to ask questions about the process and you should keep on top of things.  The insurance company may in fact ask for additional documentation and you don't want it dragging on too long.