Can men be victims of domestic violence?

Yes — roughly 1 in 9 men experience severe physical violence by an intimate partner. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE) and ManKind Initiative serve male victims. Stigma is a major barrier, but the legal protections (protective orders, DV charges) are available to men in every state.

What if I'm falsely accused?

Take it seriously even if untrue. Consult a criminal or family law attorney immediately; don't speak to police or the accuser without counsel. Document your whereabouts, witnesses, communications. Most protective orders can be challenged at a full evidentiary hearing within 10–21 days of initial issuance.

How do I get a protective order?

File a petition at your county's family court or civil court — no attorney required. Temporary ex parte orders can issue same-day; a full hearing typically follows within two to three weeks. Court self-help centers and DV advocates help fill out forms at no cost.

Are there shelters for men?

Male-specific DV shelter capacity is limited but exists in some cities (through organizations like Valor, ManKind, and certain state coalitions). Most DV agencies will arrange hotel placement or referral to emergency shelter for male victims when shelter-specific housing isn't available.

Domestic Violence in Arkansas

6 verified resources.

About Domestic Violence for Fathers

Domestic violence resources for men have grown significantly over the past decade. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE) accepts calls from any gender, and the Stop Abusive and Violent Environments (SAVE) helpline and ManKind Initiative are dedicated to male victims. Every state has a coalition against domestic violence, and most cities have shelters — though male-specific shelter capacity remains limited. Men can obtain protective orders in family court, request supervised visitation, and work with victim advocates attached to local prosecutor offices. For fathers falsely accused of domestic violence during custody disputes, a criminal defense attorney or family law attorney with DV experience is critical. This directory includes national hotlines, state coalitions, men's shelters where available, and protective order resources.

Domestic Violence in Arkansas

Arkansas circuit courts hear family law matters in all 75 counties, with the Office of Child Support Enforcement under the Department of Finance and Administration. Little Rock, Fort Smith, and Fayetteville are the largest metros. Legal Aid of Arkansas and the Center for Arkansas Legal Services provide free civil representation to eligible fathers statewide.

6 Resources

1. Arkansas Coalition Against Domestic Violence — Free

Statewide coalition connecting survivors to member shelters, legal help, hotline support, and advocacy services across all 75 Arkansas counties. The 24/7 hotline can route callers to the nearest shelter, help with protective order filing, and coordinate safety planning. Male survivors and fathers concerned for their children can call confidentially at any hour to speak with a trained advocate.

800-269-4668 · 1401 W Capitol Ave #170, Little Rock, AR 72201 · 24/7 hotline · Visit Website

2. Women & Children First – Little Rock — Free

Central Arkansas domestic violence program providing emergency shelter, crisis counseling, legal advocacy, and children's services for survivors and their kids. The 24/7 crisis line can screen for shelter availability and help with protective order filings in Pulaski County. Fathers calling on behalf of a partner or children can get referrals to safe housing, counseling, and supervised visitation programs.

501-376-3219 · PO Box 1955, Little Rock, AR 72203 · 24/7 crisis line · Visit Website

3. Peace at Home Family Shelter – Fayetteville — Free

Northwest Arkansas domestic violence shelter offering emergency housing, crisis line support, legal advocacy, and children's programming for survivors fleeing abuse. The 24/7 crisis line screens for shelter space and helps with protective orders in Washington and Benton counties. Fathers can call for safety planning, referrals for children's counseling, and information about safe visitation options.

479-442-9811 · PO Box 4024, Fayetteville, AR 72702 · 24/7 crisis line · Visit Website

4. National DV Hotline – Arkansas — Free

Free, confidential 24/7 national hotline that routes Arkansas callers to local shelters, legal advocates, and support programs. Fathers, male survivors, or parents worried about a partner or their children can call or chat online anytime. Advocates provide safety planning, protective order information, and warm referrals to Arkansas-based resources. Interpreters are available and calls are not recorded or traced.

800-799-7233 · 24/7 · Visit Website

5. Arkansas Legal Aid – DV Legal Help — Free

Free civil legal assistance for domestic violence survivors across Arkansas, focusing on protective orders, custody, divorce, and housing issues tied to abuse. Fathers and male survivors can apply through the Jonesboro office or central intake line. Bring photo ID, any police reports, prior court orders, and documentation of injuries or threats. Services are income-based and confidential throughout.

800-952-9243 · 714 S Main St, Jonesboro, AR 72401 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

6. StrongHearts Native Helpline – Arkansas — Free

Culturally specific 24/7 helpline for Native American and Alaska Native survivors of domestic and dating violence, including tribal members living in Arkansas. Native fathers and families can call or chat anonymously to speak with advocates trained in tribal resources, safety planning, and protective order processes. The helpline also connects callers to local Arkansas shelters and legal services.

844-762-8483 · 24/7 · Visit Website

Domestic Violence — Common Questions

Can men be victims of domestic violence?: Yes — roughly 1 in 9 men experience severe physical violence by an intimate partner. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE) and ManKind Initiative serve male victims. Stigma is a major barrier, but the legal protections (protective orders, DV charges) are available to men in every state.
What if I'm falsely accused?: Take it seriously even if untrue. Consult a criminal or family law attorney immediately; don't speak to police or the accuser without counsel. Document your whereabouts, witnesses, communications. Most protective orders can be challenged at a full evidentiary hearing within 10–21 days of initial issuance.
How do I get a protective order?: File a petition at your county's family court or civil court — no attorney required. Temporary ex parte orders can issue same-day; a full hearing typically follows within two to three weeks. Court self-help centers and DV advocates help fill out forms at no cost.
Are there shelters for men?: Male-specific DV shelter capacity is limited but exists in some cities (through organizations like Valor, ManKind, and certain state coalitions). Most DV agencies will arrange hotel placement or referral to emergency shelter for male victims when shelter-specific housing isn't available.