California Partnership to End Domestic Violence

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 California

California handles custody in superior courts across all 58 counties. The Department of Child Support Services runs enforcement through local child support agencies (LCSAs) in every county. Los Angeles County operates the largest family court system in the US. Major metros include LA, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Fresno, and Sacramento. LA County's LAFLA, Bay Area Legal Aid, and Legal Aid Society of San Diego are the largest legal aid programs.

More Domestic Violence in California

• National Domestic Violence Hotline — 24/7 crisis line for ALL domestic violence survivors including men. Trained advocates provide support, safety planning, and local shelter re
• CA Courts — DV Restraining Order Self-Help — Step-by-step guide to filing a domestic violence restraining order in California. No fee and no attorney required — you can file yourself. A
• Valley Oasis — Antelope Valley (Lancaster) — One of the first US shelters specifically providing emergency shelter to men fleeing domestic violence. 65-bed, 60-day shelter serving men,
• Community Resource Center — San Diego (Men's DV Services) — Primary DV provider in coastal North San Diego County serving men age 17 and older. Emergency shelter, individual counseling, housing stabil
• 1in6 — Support for Male Survivors — 24/7 online helpline with trained advocates specifically for men and boys with unwanted or abusive sexual experiences. Free confidential wee
• MaleSurvivor — 15,000+ member online community for male survivors of sexual victimization founded in 1995. Provides peer forums, in-person healing weekends

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.