H & C PR process

Unfortunately there's been a bad turn of events in my relationship and quest to come to Canada permanently. I've had to leave my boyfriend because of domestic violence. I would try to work things out with him, if he does counseling. I doubt he will, so for my own safety, the relationship is dead.

I am living in Calgary (with friends atm). I have permission to stay as a visitor until this winter.

I have spoke with CIWA and a free lawyer provided by their service. She has recommended I apply to stay in Calgary under H&C grounds. (I don't want to leave for a variety of personal reasons, including fiancial hardship and I would be forced to stay with my father who is also abusive.)

I would also like to go to the police about the abuse. I am afraid to go and face deportation as a consquence. However, as I understand, reporting the abuse may help me get a PR this way... so its a double edged sword.

Does anyone have experience with this? I'm very scared right now, not only of my boyfriend, but also this entire process. All I want is to continue living my life as a normal, productive member of society. I am aware I'm not Canadian so I don't have a "right" to stay here, so please don't lecture me on that... I have built myself a life here. It's insane that I should be punished further for refusing to be abused any longer.