The parties lived together in a common law relationship for forty-two years on a farm owned by the respondent.
The appellant performed all domestic labour, raised their six children, and worked extensively on the farm without remuneration.
After the relationship deteriorated, the appellant sought an interest in the farm.
The Supreme Court of Canada held that the respondent was unjustly enriched by the appellant's unpaid labour, which preserved and maintained the farm.
The Court expanded the doctrine of constructive trust, holding that a contribution need not be directed to the acquisition of property, but can also relate to its preservation, maintenance, or improvement.
The appeal was allowed and the trial judge's order granting the appellant a portion of the farm and a lump sum payment was reinstated.