what is the basis for financial settlements on divorce/separation?

[elliott]

OK, trying this question again.
my db and sil are probably splitting and I realise I know absolutely nothing about divorce. Obviously, I don't really need to as its not my responsibility, but I am concerned that my db is treated fairly.
Can anyone give me a 5 minute guide to principles guiding what happens to assets etc after divorce? Particularly property and business assets? Or are there no general principles - could they basically agree whatever they wanted?
Is the best way for them to seek mediation or for him to find a solicitor, or both?

mumoverseas - I do appreciate what you are saying.

Had thingsgo tits up with my own divorce, and luky I used a solicitor as it meant they had to put things right at there cost - whereas if I hadn't have used a solicitor ot would have cost me a lot of money that I still didn't have - get my drift. So having had things go wrong I would advice to use a decent solicitor.

Mediation is done from centers and a solicitor can advice and get the ball rolling on this - both parties have to agree to go and are interviewed seperately then together - it is done very sensitively. But does cost.

You then pay for a solicitor to write up what you have agreed which should be minimul and could be paid on monthly account.