34 yrs of marriage - alimony?

[Baileysgirl]

I was wondering - would the courts award alimony to someone who does work, but only part time?........I've worked 30 yrs part time, and now I'm trying to get more work and am not getting anywhere.....its very depressing, and since I'm still at home, it scares me to think that I may not earn enough to make it on my own.......I haven't filed yet, but I've been givin' til the 1st of March to make up my mind on weather or not I'm out of here.....I've put in for different positions at where I work, nothing yet, but still hoping........being 54 yrs old makes it alot harder to find work it seems, so my question is - is there a percentage that the courts by, if they do give you alimony? And for how long? And does it matter, to the courts, that your husband has a history of abuse?

[m_t]

It wouldn't surprise me if you were to get alimony based on the length of the marriage and your work history. However, there may be some provision requiring you to retrain in a different field. I know over on the HEO board, we have a lady who was of an age with you, and received temp SS while she went back to school. So, even in your 50's, that's possible.

You may, however, need to consider taking a second PT job.

[Baileysgirl]

Yes, I've considered that too..........its just that damn healtlh Ins thats so expensive.............are there any cases where the courts make the husband pay for the wifes health ins. or not??
Thats one of my main problems and  I haven't left yet, but i'm soooo ready to get out.................

[m_t]

Yes, he could be ordered to pay for your health insurance.

[Baileysgirl]

mmmmmm. thats interesting...............I live in Iowa - do that make a diffenance?............

[m_t]

Probably not. It would be up to the judge.