Harbor House of Central Florida (Orlando)

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 Florida

Florida handles family law in circuit courts across its 20 judicial circuits. The Department of Revenue Child Support Program oversees enforcement statewide. Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Fort Lauderdale are the largest metros. Florida has an active self-help court system, free online parenting courses, and Bay Area Legal Services, Three Rivers Legal Services, and other LSC programs providing representation.

More Domestic Violence in Florida

• National Domestic Violence Hotline — 24/7 confidential hotline for all victims of domestic violence regardless of gender. Trained advocates provide crisis intervention, safety p
• Florida Domestic Violence Hotline — Statewide 24-hour hotline connecting callers to their nearest certified domestic violence center across Florida. Serves all victims regardle
• Florida Partnership to End Domestic Violence (FPEDV) — Formerly the Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence (FCADV). The federally recognized state coalition connecting survivors to Florida's
• AVDA - Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse (Palm Beach County) — Explicitly serves women, men, and children. 64-bed emergency shelter (stays up to 6 weeks) plus 32-bed transitional housing (up to 2 years).
• Hubbard House (Jacksonville) — Safe shelter, hot meals, and personal amenities for women, men, and children in Duval and Baker counties. Services are explicitly accessible
• CASA - Community Action Stops Abuse (Pinellas County) — Official DV provider for Pinellas County serving all genders, ages, and abilities. Services include 24-hour hotline, emergency shelter, supp

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.