BIPP Class

Charlie Roadman explains the basic elements of the Batterers Intervention and Prevention Program (BIPP)

BIPP Class FAQ

WHAT IS THE BIPP CLASS?

It is a counseling program that is typically required when someone is arrested for an Assault (FV) case in Travis County.

WHAT DOES BIPP STAND FOR?

Batterers Intervention and Prevention Program.

THAT'S THE WORST NAME FOR A COUNSELING PROGRAM THAT I'VE EVER HEARD.

I agree.

HOW LONG IS THE BIPP CLASS.

It depends. There are four versions. 18 weeks, 24 weeks, 36 weeks, and 52 weeks.

I'M GOING TO HATE THIS.

Many of my clients assume that. However, I've found that nearly all of my clients actually end up enjoying the class and are, in fact, sad when it is over. I'm not kidding.

HOW DO I START?

First you must be evaluated by Travis County CES to determine which length of class they recommend. The evaluation will consist of a questionnaire, an interview, your past arrest history (if any), and the general facts around this case. Here is an FAQ ABOUT THE CES EVALUATION.

OK. I GOT THE EVALUATION. NOW WHAT?

There are two companies that offer the class. Because of the pandemic, the companies started offering virtual (zoom) classes. However, they have recently been moving back to in-person classes. You should ask whether the classes are in-person or via zoom.

  • LIFEWORKS
  • 512.735.2100
  • 3 locations
  • 835 N. Pleasant Valley Rd., Austin, TX 78702
  • 3700 S. 1st. Street, Austin, TX 78704
  • 8913 Collinfield Drive, Austin, TX 78758

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I COMPLETE THE CLASS?

They will give you a certificate. You email a picture of it to me and I will give it to the prosecutors.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

You should confirm with each company, but Lifeworks has a sliding scale (depending on your income) that ranges from $25-$85/week. The Center for Cognitive Education charges $55 for orientation with classes at $40/week.

I CAN'T TAKE THE CLASSES BECAUSE OF WORK/FAMILY/TRAVEL/TRANSPORTATION/FINANCES.

I understand. Unfortunately, the other alternatives are risky for the case. My goal is to get your case dismissed. And this class gives us the best chance of negotiating that result. If I've recommended that you take this class, I assure you that it is the best strategy. However, if you absolutely can't take the class, call me. I'm happy to discuss the likely outcomes of not doing the class. Of course, we always have the option of requesting a jury trial.

IF I COMPLETE THE CLASS, WILL THAT GUARANTEE A DISMISSAL?

No. But it always improves our chances. There are occasions when I've negotiated an explicit agreement with the prosecutors to dismiss the case with completion of the BIPP class. Other times, I try to convince the prosecutor to dismiss the case after you've completed the class. It all depends on the facts of the case. However, taking the class always improves the outcome of the case - whether it is a dismissal or significantly reduced punishment terms.

I STILL HAVE QUESTIONS.

No problem. Give us a call – (512) 472-1113 – we’re happy to answer any questions. Or you can e-mail us.