My Sister's House – Charleston

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 South Carolina

South Carolina family courts handle divorce, custody, and support in each of its 16 judicial circuits. The Child Support Services Division operates under the Department of Social Services. Charleston, Columbia, North Charleston, and Mount Pleasant are the largest cities. South Carolina Legal Services is the primary LSC-funded civil legal aid program statewide.

More Domestic Violence in South Carolina

• Sistercare — Emergency shelter and domestic violence services for the Columbia area and Midlands. Sistercare provides crisis counseling, legal advocacy,
• Safe Harbor – Greenville — Emergency shelter and services for Upstate domestic violence survivors, including children. Safe Harbor offers crisis counseling, legal advo
• SAFE Homes – Spartanburg — Domestic violence shelter, counseling, and legal advocacy for Spartanburg-area survivors and their children. SAFE Homes operates a confident
• Citizens Against Spouse Abuse – Rock Hill — Emergency shelter and services for York County-area domestic violence survivors and their children. Staff provide crisis counseling, legal a
• Pee Dee Coalition Against DV — Domestic violence services, shelter, and prevention programs serving the Pee Dee region. The coalition runs a confidential 24/7 hotline conn
• National DV Hotline – South Carolina — Free 24/7 hotline connecting South Carolina domestic violence survivors to local shelters, legal advocates, and counseling resources. Traine

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.