MONTREAL – The former partner of a prominent Montreal businessman is challenging sections of the Quebec civil code that deny alimony to common-law wives who split with their spouses.

The woman, who can't be identified to protect her children, wants $56,000 per month in alimony in addition to a flat sum of $50 million.

The woman was with the businessman for nearly 10 years and had three children, all of whom get support payments.

Her lawyer argues the law doesn't reflect reality.

She said it is common in Quebec for couples to remain unmarried and points out 60 per cent of children in Montreal are born out of wedlock.

The lawyer is attacking the constitutionality of the law.