Get the order of protection immediately. That will protect you now and down the road. My brother lost all his rights to his kids. He want abusive to the kids only his wife. She filed for an OFP which is different from a restraining order. As an abused woman you are entitled to the red carpet in the courtroom.
From what I remember, first you file the OFP then there's a courtdate within a month. He can go to jail if he even sends a text or a message through a family member. Please empower yourself and google domestic violence for your state and city. Or call 911 and tell them that you're afraid, not in immediate danger but need information and resources.