Q: my mother is hospice and l have power of attorney can l spend some money of the trust

A: Under California law, as a power of attorney for your mother, your responsibilities and powers are governed by the terms of the power of attorney document and relevant state laws. In managing the trust funds, including money from the sale of her house, you must act in your mother's best interests and in accordance with her wishes as outlined in the trust or power of attorney documents.

It's important to understand that trust funds, especially those as substantial as over a million dollars, must be managed with care. This typically involves ensuring that the funds are used for your mother's benefit, like covering her healthcare needs, living expenses, and any other costs as specified in the trust.

However, you must also consider tax implications. Spending a large amount of money from the trust could potentially create tax liabilities. It's advisable to consult with a tax professional or an attorney to understand how any expenditures will affect the tax situation.

Keep in mind, any decision to spend money from the trust should be documented and justified as being in the best interest of your mother. This is to ensure transparency and accountability, safeguarding against any claims of misuse of funds.

Lastly, in situations like these, where significant assets and complex legal and tax issues are involved, seeking professional legal advice is always recommended. A lawyer can provide specific guidance tailored to your situation, ensuring compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.