The courts in British Colombia recognize that high net worth individuals have become accustomed to a certain lifestyle and they often award large sums for spousal and child support based on this. The courts may also award a spouse a very generous property division. The BC courts have broad discretion in assessing what a spouse’s needs may be and what standard of living is needed. In many cases, this has meant that a wealthier spouse may be required to turn over millions or billions to a spouse that is not in as strong an economic position.