I don't think paying him any money is a good idea at all. That won't make him back off - AND as that lawyer said it was a gift. He is only doing this to manipulate you, knowing you are struggling financially.

Besides, what if he keep changing the amount? What if he keeps coming back for more? And more? This is blackmail and you have not even done anything 'wrong'. Don't give in to his manipulation. He has you on a string and will want to keep dangling you there.

And please, in the future, don't let anyone push you around like this... cutting you off from family, controlling and abusing you.