HOPE Works — Burlington

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.

More Domestic Violence in Vermont

• Vermont Network Against Domestic & Sexual Violence — Statewide coalition of 15 member organizations providing advocacy, referrals, training, and policy work on behalf of Vermont domestic and se
• National Domestic Violence Hotline — Free 24/7 confidential support for Vermonters experiencing or escaping intimate partner abuse. Advocates provide crisis counseling, safety p
• Steps to End Domestic Violence — Burlington — Emergency shelter, advocacy, legal support, and counseling for Chittenden County domestic violence survivors and their children. Fathers esc
• Clarina Howard Nichols Center — Morrisville — Emergency shelter and support services for domestic violence survivors and their children in Lamoille County. Services include 24/7 hotline,
• Circle — Brattleboro — Domestic violence support and shelter services for Windham County, including a 24/7 hotline, safety planning, emergency housing, court advoc
• Vermont Center for Crime Victims Services — Statewide agency coordinating victim advocacy, compensation, and restitution services for Vermonters harmed by crime. Fathers who are crime

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.