Following a trial decision varying spousal support from $2,900 per month to $2,000 per month, the court addressed costs under the Family Law Rules.
Both parties relied on Rule 24 and argued they were the successful party, with particular emphasis on the reasonableness of their respective settlement offers.
The court found the respondent’s offer of $1,951 per month was significantly closer to the ultimate award than the applicant’s settlement position of approximately $2,900 to $3,000 per month.
The court rejected the applicant’s argument that she was the successful party and concluded the respondent had been substantially successful.
Costs of $5,000 all inclusive were awarded to the respondent, payable by monthly deductions from spousal support.
