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 Vermont

7 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 Vermont

Vermont's Family Division of the Superior Court handles all family matters statewide. The Office of Child Support Services operates under DCF. Burlington, South Burlington, Rutland, and Essex are the largest towns. Vermont Legal Aid and Legal Services Vermont (a nonprofit partner) provide civil legal aid, including a joint statewide Family Law helpline.

7 Resources

1. Vermont Network Against Domestic & Sexual Violence — Free

Statewide coalition of 15 member organizations providing advocacy, referrals, training, and policy work on behalf of Vermont domestic and sexual violence survivors. Fathers experiencing or escaping abuse, or concerned about a family member, can call the Montpelier office for referrals to local programs. All member services are free and confidential, including safety planning and shelter placement.

(802) 223-1302 · PO Box 405, Montpelier, VT 05601 · Mon-Fri 9am-5pm · Visit Website

2. National Domestic Violence Hotline — Free

Free 24/7 confidential support for Vermonters experiencing or escaping intimate partner abuse. Advocates provide crisis counseling, safety planning, and referrals to local shelters and legal resources. Fathers concerned for their own safety or a loved one's can call, text START to 88788, or chat online. Calls do not appear on most phone bills; trained staff can assist in English and Spanish.

(800) 799-7233 · National service · 24/7 · Visit Website

3. Steps to End Domestic Violence — Burlington — Free

Emergency shelter, advocacy, legal support, and counseling for Chittenden County domestic violence survivors and their children. Fathers escaping abuse, or protecting children from a violent partner, can call the 24/7 hotline for safety planning and shelter intake. Confidential location protects residents. Bring ID and any essential paperwork if safe to do so; advocates help replace missing documents.

(802) 658-3131 · Burlington, VT (confidential) · 24/7 hotline · Visit Website

4. Clarina Howard Nichols Center — Morrisville — Free

Emergency shelter and support services for domestic violence survivors and their children in Lamoille County. Services include 24/7 hotline, safety planning, court advocacy, support groups, and housing navigation. Fathers escaping abuse can call for confidential intake. Location is kept private for resident safety. Bring identification if safe; advocates assist with replacing documents and protective orders.

(802) 888-5256 · Morrisville, VT (confidential) · 24/7 hotline

5. Circle — Brattleboro — Free

Domestic violence support and shelter services for Windham County, including a 24/7 hotline, safety planning, emergency housing, court advocacy, and children's programs. Fathers protecting themselves or their kids from abuse can call for immediate help. Confidential shelter location keeps residents safe. Bring ID and custody paperwork if safe to do so; advocates assist with legal and benefits support.

(802) 254-6954 · Brattleboro, VT (confidential) · 24/7 hotline · Visit Website

6. HOPE Works — Burlington — Free

Sexual assault and domestic violence advocacy for Chittenden County residents, offering a 24/7 hotline, accompaniment to hospital exams and police interviews, court support, counseling, and prevention education. Fathers and their children affected by sexual violence or partner abuse can call anytime for confidential help. Services are free and available regardless of whether the survivor reports to police.

(802) 863-1236 · Burlington, VT (confidential) · 24/7 hotline · Visit Website

7. Vermont Center for Crime Victims Services — Free

Statewide agency coordinating victim advocacy, compensation, and restitution services for Vermonters harmed by crime. Fathers who are crime victims or whose children have been victimized may qualify for financial compensation covering medical bills, counseling, lost wages, and funeral costs. Apply through the Waterbury office; bring police reports, receipts, and victim impact statements.

(802) 241-1250 · 58 South Main St Suite 1, Waterbury, VT 05676 · Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm · 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.