The much-publicized case of the Quebec billionaire and his ex-common-law partner who's fighting for spousal support will be decided by the Supreme Court of Canada this morning.

The Quebec government turned to Canada's top court after a lower court ruling opened the door for common-law partners in Quebec to collect alimony.

Eric is the pseudonym for a very wealthy Quebecker who split up with the Brazilian model known as Lola after seven years and three children.

She sued both Eric and the Quebec government, claiming that the lack of protection for common-law spouses is discriminatory and violates the Constitution.

Under Quebec law, when a common-law union ends, there is no financial obligation to each other. Married couples split the assets acquired during the marriage 50/50. If they have kids, they'll have to pay child support but that's all.

Quebec Justice Minister Bertrand St. Arnaud said he'll be watching the decision closely.

"Normally, I will make a statement after the judgement," St. Arnaud said.

The decision could affect about 1.2 million people in common law relationships in the province.