I need to worry about the best financial arrangement for my son and I, but at what cost?
Do not worry about the cost to your H. Any money you get from him is money saved from being pissed away on his addictions. You will actually be in a better position to offer him help if he does get sober in the future, if you get a really good settlement now.
Also don't fall into the trap of thinking if you're "nice" to him in the negotiations and don't ask for everything you are due, he will be more likely to come back. It NEVER works that way on these boards. Never.
Get the most you can to help you raise your son because your H is likely to be a deadbeat dad in the near future.
