Actually, there is regulation about how much a man has to pay, but should be no more than 1/3 of his income (before tax), at least in our state. What you saw about your friend getting everything is only superficial, you don't really know the deal. For example, the house will be sold and split the money when the youngest child finishing HS, etc.. As to some male divorcee, they felt the pain even they are ordered to pay a penny.