My Sisters' Place — Westchester County DV

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 New York

New York has separate Family Court (for custody, support, paternity, DV) and Supreme Court (for divorce) systems. NYC's Family Court operates in all five boroughs. The Office of Child Support Services runs enforcement. NYC, Buffalo, Rochester, Yonkers, and Syracuse are the major metros. Legal Aid Society of NYC, New York Legal Assistance Group, and Legal Services NYC provide substantial family law aid.

More Domestic Violence in New York

• National Domestic Violence Hotline — Free, confidential 24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic violence. Call (800) 799-7233, text START to 88788, or chat online at theho
• NYS Domestic Violence Hotline — OPDV — New York State 24/7 confidential hotline operated by the Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence. Call or text (800) 942-6906. Connec
• Safe Horizon — NYC DV Hotline & Shelters — NYC's largest victim services agency. 24/7 hotline at (800) 621-4673 for DV survivors and victims of crime. Crisis counseling, safety planni
• NY Courts — Orders of Protection Information — Official guide to filing for an Order of Protection in NY Family Court or Criminal Court. Explains the full process including how to request
• NY Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence — NY State agency with resources for all domestic violence survivors including men. Provides a statewide program directory, safety planning gu
• 1in6 — Support for Men Who Have Experienced Trauma — National helpline for men who have experienced sexual abuse or assault at any point in their lives. Free, confidential online chat and phone

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.