Pattinige Abayadasa v. Welisarage Chandrawathie Perera – SC APPEAL NO. 176/2010-2016

In the case between Pattinige Abayadasa and Welisarage Chandrawathie Perera, the court addressed the issue of the proper quantum of alimony pendente lite to be awarded pending divorce proceedings. It was held that the District Court’s original assessment of Rs. 7500 per month was supported by detailed factual findings and evidence concerning the Plaintiff’s income and assets, and that the High Court’s reduction of this amount to Rs. 2600 per month lacked sufficient justification and did not properly consider the established facts. This decision reaffirmed the principle that appellate courts must not interfere with factual findings of lower courts in the absence of compelling error, relying on procedural and evidentiary standards. The restoration of the District Court’s order emphasized the