Should I get a lawyer for my Ca divorce?

Location: California. I’m filing for divorce from my husband of 12 years. For context when we married I was making more money while putting him through his career training while he worked part time or not at all. When we had a child 7 years ago he was making great money, so I quit to avoid daycare costs and go back to college. I tried going back to work but he fought me on it and I ended up waiting until after graduating college. All of the utilities were in my name.

Things were ok for awhile but he was slowly taking full control of our finances and hiding things from me. I didn’t realize how bad it was until he moved out 2 months ago. He hadn’t paid any utilities consistently in years, there are thousands racked up in my name. And to keep those utilities on I have to pay the extra payment arrangements on top of the usual bill. He defaulted on bills we were both on destroying my credit. He also borrowed thousands (without me knowing) from my family that I feel responsible for paying back as I know he won’t. I was just about to graduate when he moved out (it was unexpected) and I only just got a job. I’ve been scraping by with help from family, assistance and what he tosses me occasionally. With this new job I’ll still be struggling to get by but I think I can do it. He now lives rent free with his rich brother.

Now here’s my question…even though I’m now working can I still get spousal support from him? I never thought I’d do that if I was working, but he’s financially ruined me and I need help. I’ll also have full custody of our child. I’d initially hoped to divorce without lawyers as we’re broke, but should I try to get one? Any insight would be helpful!