People's Law Library - 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 Maryland

Maryland circuit courts handle family law in each of its 24 jurisdictions, with magistrates hearing many child support and custody matters. The Child Support Administration operates under the Department of Human Services. Baltimore, Columbia, Silver Spring, Frederick, and Rockville anchor the population. Maryland Legal Aid and Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service provide civil legal representation.

More Domestic Violence in Maryland

• Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence (MNADV) — Statewide coalition coordinating domestic violence services across Maryland's 24 jurisdictions. Operates the Maryland DV Hotline connecting
• National Domestic Violence Hotline — 24/7 confidential hotline offering crisis intervention, safety planning, and referrals to local Maryland domestic violence programs. Availab
• House of Ruth Maryland (Baltimore) — Baltimore's leading domestic violence agency providing emergency shelter, transitional housing, legal services, counseling for adults and ch
• Family Crisis Center of PG County — Serves Prince George's County domestic violence and sexual assault survivors with emergency shelter, individual and group counseling, legal
• LifeBridge Health - Center for Hope (Baltimore) — Comprehensive services for Baltimore-area survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and elder abuse, including counseling
• Heartly House (Frederick) — Frederick County agency providing 24-hour crisis services, emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and children's programs for surviv

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.