What is the ruling on an inheritance that consists of a sum of money deposited in an interest-bearing bank account, including both the principal amount and its interest, knowing that the account holder used the interest to cover the costs of a just legal case in which he was unable to reclaim his right before his death, and is it permissible to distribute the entire amount to the heirs, or must the interest be deducted first?

Bank benefits are usurious and forbidden. Whoever has engaged in them must withdraw immediately and dispose of the previous benefits, as it is not permissible to profit from them. What has devolved to the heirs from these funds is not their right, because it is forbidden wealth, and it must be spent on good causes and public utilities. If the heirs are poor, they are permitted to benefit from it to the extent of their needs, not as their shares in the inheritance. The remainder should be distributed to those who are deserving.