Maryland § 14.5-203
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 14.5-203, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 14.5-203.
(a) (1) A discretionary power conferred on the trustee to determine the benefits of a beneficiary is subject to judicial control to prevent misinterpretation or abuse of the discretion of the trustee.
(2) The benefits to which a beneficiary of a discretionary distribution provision is entitled, and what may constitute an abuse of discretion by the trustee, depend on the terms of the discretion, including the proper construction of accompanying standards, and on the settlor’s purposes in granting the discretionary power and in creating the trust.
(3) Notwithstanding the breadth of discretion granted to a trustee by the terms of a trust, including the use of the terms “absolute”, “sole”, or “uncontrolled”, a trustee abuses the discretion of the trustee in exercising or failing to exercise a discretionary power if the trustee:
(i) Acts dishonestly;
(ii) Acts with an improper motive, even though not a dishonest motive;
(iii) Fails to exercise the judgment of the trustee in accordance with the terms and purposes of the trust; or
(iv) Acts beyond the bounds of reasonable judgment.
(b) A court may review an action by a trustee under a support provision or a mandatory distribution provision in the trust.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 14.5-203
What does Maryland Code § 14.5-203 cover?
Section 14.5-203 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maryland § 14.5-203?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 14.5-203" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maryland law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.
How does Maryland § 14.5-203 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.