Between Friends Chicago
Domestic Violence · Illinois · Free
Chicago-based organization offering a 24-hour crisis line, emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and prevention education for domestic violence survivors on the North Side. Between Friends operates a confidential crisis hotline and provides wrap-around services including safety planning, court advocacy, and transitional housing referrals. Call the 24-hour line at 1-800-603-4357 to speak with a trained advocate and learn about available services.
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 Illinois
Illinois handles family law through circuit courts in each of its 23 judicial circuits, with Cook County running its own Domestic Relations Division. The Division of Child Support Services handles enforcement. Chicago dominates the state; downstate metros include Aurora, Rockford, Joliet, Naperville, and Peoria. Legal Aid Chicago (formerly CVLS) and Land of Lincoln Legal Aid cover most of the state for low-income fathers.