The appellant appealed a trial decision ordering him to pay $400,000 in lump sum spousal support to his former common-law partner.
During their nine-year relationship, the respondent supported the appellant financially and emotionally through severe depression and substance abuse, suffering economic detriment while enabling him to achieve significant financial success.
The Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal, finding the trial judge made unassailable findings of fact regarding the respondent's compensatory entitlement and need.
The court also upheld the lump sum format, distinguishing previous case law because the award would not cause the appellant hardship and the economic advantages and disadvantages could be accurately identified.