Must the questioner return a sum of money he took from his father to cover his brother's tuition fees, especially since the questioner considers this amount to be part of his right to maintenance that his father previously withheld, and he is in dire need of it to cover his own expenses and those of his siblings, with fears that the money might be unlawful?

A husband is obligated to provide for his wife and his male children until they reach puberty and are able to earn a living, and for his female children until they marry. The father cannot claim these expenses back later. It is not permissible for a wealthy father to take money from his children or compel them to cover his obligatory expenses, unless he is in need without causing harm to them. The questioner is not entitled to claim back the money she previously spent on her siblings and mother. The wife's maintenance does not lapse with the passage of time and becomes a debt owed by the husband, unlike the maintenance for others. The questioner may keep the amount and spend it judiciously on behalf of her father for what is due from him regarding the maintenance of his wife and needy children. One must remember the great right of the father and seek reward from Allah.