In a landmark ruling that clarifies financial arrangements within romantic relationships, the High Court has determined that a vehicle purchased during the COVID-19 pandemic rightfully belongs to the man who provided the funds, not the woman who received them.
Justice Westmin James delivered a written verdict favoring Steffon Belfon, who had transferred approximately CAD$50,000 from Canada in October 2020 to Marva Khan, his romantic partner at the time. The court found compelling evidence that these funds were specifically designated for purchasing a vehicle for Belfon’s use, not as an unconditional gift as Khan had claimed.
The legal dispute emerged following the dissolution of the couple’s relationship. Belfon, a self-employed contractor stranded in Canada due to pandemic restrictions, testified that he sent the money anticipating post-budget price increases. He intended for Khan to acquire the vehicle on his behalf during his absence from Trinidad.
Justice James’ analysis revealed that Khan acknowledged under cross-examination that the initial transfer expressly served the purpose of vehicle acquisition. The judge noted that the defendant’s testimony contained significant inconsistencies that undermined her credibility.
“Based on the balance of probabilities,” Justice James wrote, “the CAD$50,000 transfer was intended for vehicle procurement for the claimant’s benefit. The presumption of a resulting trust remains undisputed.”
The court ordered Khan to transfer the Honda Vezel hybrid SUV—purchased for approximately $185,000 and registered in her name—to Belfon’s ownership within 30 days. However, the judge dismissed Belfon’s claims regarding household items and additional funds totaling TT$120,400, noting that a subsequent CAD$10,000 transfer appeared consistent with gratuitous payment within their personal relationship.
Both parties achieved partial success in their claims, resulting in no costs awarded to either side. Legal representation included attorneys Sunil Seecharan and Vanita Ramroop for Belfon, while Shawn Fulchan represented Khan.