I'd really appreciate some advice from other Mumsnetters on how I can help a friend whose marriage has just broken up.
She is in mainland Europe and her husband is not an EU citizen. They have two children, both British citizens with UK passports. She is still in shock over it all although the marriage has been rocky for some time and I think she has been a total star keeping it going for the children's sake (he is a good father and a CRAP husband).
She is basically facing coming back to the UK and starting from scratch with the children. She has not worked outside the home since the children were born and has some savings but no real prospect of much from him, there is no property to sell.
I feel pretty clueless about what practical information to find out for her and just wondered if anyone had any experience of "coming home" after a relationship breakdown.
What benefits is she entitled to while she gets herself sorted out?
Would the fact that he is employed outside the UK by a US employer affect her legal entitlement to maintenance, and how likely she is to actually get anything the courts award her if he remains living in Europe or returns to his home country?
Does anyone have a recommendation for a good solicitor with experience in these matters (Sykes, Twinkie, I wondered if either of you might have a suggestion here, I'd be so grateful).
I can't imagine what she's going through right now and want to do what I can in advance of her return to the UK. Any suggestions/contacts very gratefully received.