South Dakota Coalition Ending Domestic & Sexual 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 South Dakota

South Dakota circuit courts hear family matters in each of its seven judicial circuits. The Division of Child Support operates under DSS. Sioux Falls and Rapid City are the largest cities. Dakota Plains Legal Services and East River Legal Services provide civil legal aid statewide (with special mandates serving tribal communities).

More Domestic Violence in South Dakota

• National Domestic Violence Hotline — Round-the-clock confidential support, safety planning, and referrals from trained advocates for anyone experiencing or concerned about domes
• Children's Inn — Sioux Falls — Emergency shelter and services for domestic violence survivors and their children in the Sioux Falls area. The confidential location is acce
• Working Against Violence Inc. (WAVI) — Rapid City — Shelter, advocacy, and support for domestic violence survivors in western South Dakota operated by WAVI in Rapid City. Services include a co
• Missouri Shores Domestic Violence Center — Emergency shelter and support services for domestic violence survivors in central South Dakota based in Pierre. Services include confidentia
• Citizens Against Rape & Domestic Violence — Brookings — Crisis intervention, advocacy, and shelter for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors in northeast South Dakota based in Brookings.
• Sacred Heart Center — Yankton — Support services and shelter for domestic violence survivors in southeast South Dakota operated through Sacred Heart in Yankton. Services in

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.