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.

Domestic Violence in Montana

5 verified resources.

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 Montana

Montana district courts handle family matters in each of its 56 counties across 22 judicial districts. The Child Support Services Division operates under DPHHS. Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, and Bozeman are the largest cities. Montana Legal Services Association is the statewide LSC-funded civil legal aid program, with extensive online self-help for pro se litigants.

5 Resources

1. Montana Coalition Against DV & Sexual Assault — Free

Statewide coalition coordinating Montana's network of domestic violence and sexual assault programs. Fathers concerned for their own safety, their children, or a partner can call the 24/7 hotline for confidential support and referral to the nearest local shelter or advocacy program. The coalition also maintains a searchable program directory and trains advocates across Montana's tribal and rural communities.

888-404-7794 · PO Box 818, Helena, MT 59624 · 24/7 hotline · Visit Website

2. YWCA Billings – DV Services — Free

YWCA Billings operates an emergency domestic violence shelter, 24/7 crisis line, safety planning, court advocacy, and children's services for survivors in Yellowstone County and surrounding areas. All services are free and confidential. Fathers fleeing abuse with children can call the crisis line any time to arrange intake; advocates can also help with protection orders, housing navigation, and longer-term support.

406-252-6303 · 909 Wyoming Ave, Billings, MT 59101 · 24/7 crisis line · Visit Website

3. YWCA Missoula – DV Services — Free

YWCA Missoula provides emergency shelter, crisis counseling, legal advocacy, and transitional housing for domestic violence survivors in western Montana. Services are confidential and available regardless of gender. Dads and their children fleeing violence can call the 24/7 crisis line to arrange a safe intake; advocates help with protection orders, court hearings, safety plans, and connections to basic needs.

406-542-1944 · 1130 W Broadway, Missoula, MT 59802 · 24/7 crisis line · Visit Website

4. Haven – Bozeman — Free

Haven is Gallatin County's domestic violence program, operating a 24/7 crisis line, emergency shelter, legal advocacy, counseling, and children's services for survivors in Bozeman, Belgrade, and surrounding communities. All services are free and confidential. Fathers needing shelter with kids or help filing for a protection order can call any time; advocates go to court with survivors and help with safety planning.

406-586-4111 · PO Box 718, Bozeman, MT 59771 · 24/7 crisis line · Visit Website

5. National DV Hotline – Montana — Free

Free, confidential 24/7 national hotline staffed by trained advocates who help callers anywhere in Montana plan for safety and connect to local shelters, legal aid, and counseling. Services are available by phone, online chat at thehotline.org, or text START to 88788. Advocates speak English and Spanish and use translation for 200+ other languages. Fathers and male survivors are welcome to call for help.

800-799-7233 · 24/7 · Visit Website

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.