xH emotionally abusing DS....

[Fabnewme2011]

...and I want to go for sole custody, but I'm scared that it will backfire on me because I'm on my own here, whereas he has his whole family about 20 miles away.

It's breaking my heart to hear my son talk and cry so much about what goes on

Keep a diary if you're not already and perhaps record your DS explaining what your exH says to him. This will help give your solicitor vital info for your sole custody case. Hope it goes okay

A diary is a good idea, log both good and bad to look reasonable. Also, get a professional on side, as parent you can find a counsellor without your ex husband's permission...good luck!