Friend unhappy married, but worried about her house

[MyLovelyFriend2015]

my friend has scrimped and saved her way to a little (value) house. She has since married a 'man' - who refuses to work - claims disability benefits, is incapable of housework, refuses to give her any of the weekly benefit for food or bills etc and keeps it (£55) to himself, makes a terrible mess, takes her cigarettes (her only vice)

He is up at all hours and sleeps through the day - ignores her and treats her like total crap

If she asked him to leave (after 2 years of marriage) where he has not contributed a brass farthing, would she have to pay him off? or any support money?

He's wearing her out, and she is a shadow of her former self - there are no children

His disability is a physical one - i'm not aware of any depression (but i obviously don't know everything about him/their relationship)

I have asked her quite a lot of times if she loves him, and she avoids answering - i don't think she does anymore, which is sad because shes not high maintenance at all, she doesn't do labels or spend lots, she's a 'simple soul' (i don't mean stupid, just give her some respect and she will do anything for those she loves...)

So - back to the original post, I have advised her to get some legal advice as I don't think he is going to change x

Legal advice required - every case is different - BUT a good illustration of the gravity of marriage vs cohabitation. A pattern of support for a disabled/non working spouse can result in a lifetime commitment - even after divorce - one of many reasons I will never marry again.

Note that behaviour is totally separate from finances - so 99% of the time the financial settlement takes no account of whatever outrageous things anyone may or may not have done.

Surely even is she loses out a bit financially, she will be so much better off than living how she lives now?

I lost out financially when my ex moved out, a lot, even though we weren't married and the house was entirely in my name. I am really, really struggling financially with two kids and he has not yet paid a penny of child maintenance to me despite court orders (can't afford to take him to court again).

BUT - I wake up every morning FREE from his controlling, abusive, miserable presence - and it is like waking in a fairytale dream, I tell you. Friends and family tell me I am like a different person. Money will sort itself out eventually as I'm a hard worker and will grab any opportunity. In the meantime, I never have to bow down to his opinion or row with him about something stupid or clean up after him ever again... It makes my heart sing with joy, truly