Doorways for Women and Families (Northern VA)

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 Virginia

Virginia has Juvenile and Domestic Relations Courts handling custody, visitation, and child support (for unmarried parents and modifications), plus Circuit Courts handling divorce. The Division of Child Support Enforcement operates under DSS. Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Richmond, Arlington, and Alexandria are the largest cities. Central Virginia Legal Aid, Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia, and other regional LSC programs cover the state.

More Domestic Violence in Virginia

• Virginia Sexual & Domestic Violence Action Alliance — Statewide coalition coordinating domestic violence services across Virginia. Operates the Virginia Family Violence and Sexual Assault Hotlin
• National Domestic Violence Hotline — 24/7 confidential hotline providing crisis intervention, safety planning, and referrals to local Virginia shelters and DV programs in over 2
• YWCA of Richmond - Women's Advocacy Program — Offers emergency shelter, crisis counseling, legal advocacy, support groups, and children's programs for DV survivors in the greater Richmon
• HER Shelter (Norfolk/Virginia Beach) — Provides safe shelter, crisis intervention, counseling, legal advocacy, and children's services for DV survivors in the South Hampton Roads
• Shelter for Help in Emergency (Charlottesville) — Serves DV survivors in Charlottesville and Albemarle County with emergency shelter, crisis counseling, legal advocacy, and support groups. S
• Legal Aid Justice Center - DV Services — Free legal representation and advocacy for low-income DV survivors across Virginia, including protective order petitions, custody proceeding

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.