Immigrant Legal Advocacy – DV Protections

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 Maine

Maine district courts handle most family matters; superior courts handle more complex cases and appeals. The Division of Support Enforcement and Recovery operates under DHHS. Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, and Auburn are the largest cities. Pine Tree Legal Assistance is the primary LSC-funded civil legal aid program, with a strong online self-help library covering custody and support.

More Domestic Violence in Maine

• Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence — Statewide network connecting survivors of domestic abuse to shelter, advocacy, legal help, and counseling at eight member programs across Ma
• Through These Doors – Portland — Cumberland County domestic violence agency providing shelter, 24/7 crisis line, court advocacy, counseling, and children's services. Fathers
• Spruce Run-Womancare – Bangor — Domestic violence services for the greater Bangor area, including emergency shelter, 24/7 crisis line, court advocacy, support groups, and c
• Safe Voices – Auburn — Domestic violence shelter and advocacy services for Androscoggin, Franklin, and Oxford counties. The 24/7 crisis line at 207-795-4020 connec
• Next Step DV Project – Ellsworth — Domestic violence services for Hancock and Washington counties, including emergency shelter, 24/7 crisis line, court advocacy, and support g
• Hope and Justice Project – Augusta — Domestic violence services for Kennebec and Somerset counties, offering emergency shelter, a 24/7 crisis line at 207-626-3402, court advocac

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.