You don't say where you are, but you can usually get some help and advice from your local Legal Aid office. Check out your phone book or google your state and Legal Aid.

Otherwise, get some advice from your local Women's Legal Service or Community Legal Service.

Each case is different, the decision-maker takes into account each individual characteristic of each case, so I can't make a general "this is what happens when" statement.

Best wishes. Get some independent legal advice ASAP. If you're worried about your safety, also check out women's refuges in your area. They may be able to help you.