Background:
- The case involves the sale of a jointly owned property at 145 & 147 Columbus Avenue, Ottawa.
- Both Claude Bachand and Danielle Leclair held 50% of the property in trust for Marc Agostini.
- Dispute arose over dividing the proceeds after selling the property.
- Consent order resolved Agostini's claim to 50% of the proceeds plus costs from Leclair.
- Main issue: whether Bachand retained a 25% interest or held it in trust for Leclair.
Key Points:
- Ownership and Purchase:
- Property bought in 2013; Bachand, Leclair, and Agostini listed as buyers.
- Agreement between Leclair and Agostini stated equal ownership, with Agostini retaining 50%.
- Declaration of Trust:
- March 27, 2013: Declaration signed by Bachand and Leclair recognizing Agostini's 50% beneficial interest.
- No similar declaration for Leclair's beneficial interest over Bachand's 25%.
- Financial Contributions:
- Down payment and expenses paid equally by Leclair and Agostini.
- Bachand did not contribute financially beyond securing the mortgage.
- Legal Arguments:
- Applicant: Bachand should retain 25% interest due to his risk in securing the mortgage.
- Respondent Leclair: Bachand held his interest in trust for her, citing no financial contribution or intent to retain ownership.
Decision:
- Resulting Trust: Court ruled Bachand held his 25% interest in trust for Leclair due to lack of financial contribution and intent to retain ownership.
- Proceeds Distribution: Leclair entitled to remaining net proceeds after Agostini's share.
- Costs: Parties encouraged to resolve costs; if not, written submissions allowed within 15 days.
Justice Labrosse concluded Bachand's interest was held in trust for Leclair, granting her the remaining net proceeds from the sale.