@Melissa I am in the works of doing so!! I'm very lucky to have my parents to support and help me, but thank you for the advice!!
My mom went through this with my biological father. My best advice is to get a lawyer, get any evidence you can (photos of bruises, recordings, audios, witnesses even if just character witnesses, etc). He is very likely to deny abuse in court so as much evidence as you can for yourself is suggested. 🥲 Keep in mind you are doing this for your child(ren). Don't let your son grow up around this type of man thinking he should treat you or other women this way or for your daughter to think this is healthy.. I'm so thankful my mom left my biological father and found someone better.. And one day you might as well, you definitely deserve too. 🥹🫶 I will keep you in my prayers.. One final thought of advise is start on a support group outside of him! Make sure you have hobbies, friends, family, a church, COMPLETELY separate from him that support you. As hard as that is after the divorce minimal contact would likely be better so prepping for that is advised. Best of luck, love.
And remember you aren't alone. Many women have been or are in your same shoes and understand your pain.
Amazing book resource Tracy A Malone Divorcing Your Narcissist (Available on Amazon)
The best advice I can give you is this. Get a lawyer! I know they are expensive. But I promise you, it is worth every penny and it can be the difference between getting sole custody or not. You can't afford to not have an attorney.