Delaware Family Violence Intervention Unit

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 Delaware

Delaware Family Court handles custody, visitation, and child support statewide through three county courthouses (New Castle, Kent, Sussex). The Division of Child Support Services operates under DSS. Delaware's small size means one consistent state system. Community Legal Aid Society (CLASI) and Legal Services Corporation of Delaware offer free legal representation.

More Domestic Violence in Delaware

• Delaware Coalition Against Domestic Violence — Statewide coalition providing advocacy, resources, and referrals for domestic violence survivors and their children, based in Wilmington. St
• National Domestic Violence Hotline — 24/7 confidential support, safety planning, and referrals for people in abusive situations, including Delaware fathers. Trained advocates sp
• People's Place — Domestic Violence Program — Shelter, counseling, and support services for domestic violence victims and their children in Kent and Sussex counties, with the main office
• Delaware Victims' Compensation Assistance Program — State program providing financial assistance to crime victims including domestic violence survivors for medical bills, counseling, lost wage
• Abriendo Puertas/Latin American Community Center DV Services — Bilingual domestic violence services for Latino families in Delaware, based at the Latin American Community Center on North Van Buren Street
• Delaware Domestic Violence Coordinating Council — Multi-agency state council coordinating Delaware's response to domestic violence through policy, training, and inter-agency protocols, based

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.