Domestic violence is a rampant problem across the U.S. But because it is a learned behavior, many believe it can be unlearned with the right treatment. That’s why many states have increased their commitment to offering batterers intervention programs.
In Oklahoma, which has one of the highest rates of domestic violence in the nation, batterers intervention programs have become a standard element of domestic assault and battery cases. If you’re facing these charges, it’s important to learn about this program and the role it will play in your case and life.
What Is the Batterers Intervention Program in Oklahoma?
Regulated by the attorney general, Oklahoma’s Batterers Intervention Program (BIP) is a structured educational initiative whose goal is to address and prevent domestic violence. It is designed for adults who have exhibited aggressive or abusive behavior toward their intimate partners. Per the State, “These services hold a batterer accountable for abusive behavior, provide consequences for engaging in ongoing violent or abusive behavior, provide monitoring of a batterer's behavior, and require the client to change battering behavior and attitudes.”
When successful, the BIP helps batterers to end violent and coercive behaviors in their relationships and develop healthy communication and relationships.
Oklahoma has close to 60 batterers intervention programs across the State, most of which are operated by nonprofit providers. Under Oklahoma’s domestic violence laws, the program is court-ordered for offenders convicted of domestic abuse who do not serve time. To officially qualify for a BIP, you must pay for a Domestic Violence Intervention Services (DVIS) assessment (which includes a one-on-one interview with a counselor and paperwork) and receive their recommendation. (Note that the program does not accept sexual offenders.)
Oklahoma’s Batterers Intervention Program Details
The BIP is a 52-week program that requires weekly, 90-minute group sessions. These topics will be covered over the course of the year:
- Abuse and violence as a form of control and why this behavior is unacceptable
- The range of abusive power and control behaviors
- How traditional gender roles and privilege support and perpetuate abuse
- Non-abusive communication techniques
- Effective coping strategies
- Effects battering on children and parenting
- Recognition of abusive conduct and patterns, as well as accepting personal and financial responsibility for the abuse
- Developing healthy relationships
- Non-abusive behavior planning
- Effects of domestic violence on victims
- Consequences of domestic violence for batterers
Participants cannot miss more than six total or three consecutive groups in the 52-week period. Too many absences means you’ll be in violation of your probation and, at minimum, have to start the course over. More severe consequences could include being convicted of domestic assault and battery and sentenced to jail or prison time.
It’s important to know that the program does not provide the same level of confidentiality as other treatment services, such as psychological counseling. Your progress will be regularly reported to the court and other relevant authorities, which could include the Department of Human Services, your probation officer, and your lawyer.
BIP Costs
The cost to participate in Oklahoma’s Batterers Intervention Program includes fees for an initial assessment and each weekly group session. Typically, these charges are a $100-200 intake fee and $25-35 per group session for the duration of the program.
Can You Opt Out of Oklahoma’s Batterers Intervention Program?
Yes, you can choose not to participate in a BIP, but then you must face the court. These programs are designed to give defendants a way to avoid jail time and more severe sentences, while providing support to change negative behaviors. If you’d prefer to simply accept a conviction and sentencing, that is possible–but not something we recommend.
Facing Domestic Assault and Battery Charges
Navigating the court system and your legal options can be complicated and intimidating. If you’re facing domestic violence charges, we can help you get the best possible outcome for your case, which may include one of Oklahoma’s Batterers Intervention Programs. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side will make all the difference in what happens next. Contact Defending Tulsa for your free case evaluation today.