Do American Express credit cards have really stiff penalties?

[grint]

My friend who's married let all his credits cards go awhile back after his business didn't work out. He's getting divorced and there's the issue of covering debt acquired by both parties. He wants to let the other cards (in the wife's name) default as well for the time being because he just can't afford them and his wife has not worked much or helped with paying bills for years. I imagine he'll already have too many bills when he's divorced because he's been the only working partner (though they have no kids).

He's worried though, that these particular credit cards have stiffer penalties and that it will be bad for him and his soon-to-be ex-wfie. Defaulting is bad, yes, but should they be really really worried right now? Can this be worked out?

Thanks for any advice....I'll pass it on to him today.

[grint]

oops no response!
needs suggestions!
thanks!