How Long Are Domestic Violence Classes? Weeks, Hours, and What Sets the Number for a Batterers Intervention Program

Domestic violence classes usually run 26 or 52 weeks, and most courts allow one class per week. Your court order sets your exact number. The court sets the number, not the program. Each weekly class takes about 1 to 2 hours, so a 26-week program is roughly 26 to 52 hours of class time and a 52-week program is about 52 to 104 hours. Some cases allow more than one class per week, so follow the rules in your own case.

The first thing most people ask after a judge orders domestic violence classes is simple: how long is this going to take? The honest answer is that it depends on your court order. But the patterns are clear, and this guide walks through them.

Transformations BIP LLC offers online domestic violence classes from home. Classes are available 24/7 in 48 states. Read our full FAQ or keep going for the details on timing.

How Long Are Domestic Violence Classes in Weeks?

Most domestic violence classes run 26 weeks or 52 weeks. For most cases, the court allows only one class per week, so the number of classes and the number of weeks are the same. A 26-class program takes about six months. A 52-class program takes about a year. If your order lists a different number, follow your order.

Why weekly? Because the goal is to change patterns, not to check a box. A weekly schedule gives you time to try what you learned before the next class. That is why most courts allow only one class per week. Some cases do allow more than one per week, for example when the court just wants the program done by a certain date. Follow the guidelines in your own case.

Is a Batterers Intervention Program the Same as DV Classes?

Yes. A batterers intervention program (BIP) and DV classes are the same court-ordered program under different names. Your paperwork might say batterers intervention program, domestic violence course, DV classes, family violence intervention program, or domestic abuse class. Courts use different names in different counties, but the length rules are usually the same: one class per week, 26 or 52 weeks in most cases. So when someone asks "how long is a batterers intervention program?" the answer is the same as "how long are DV classes?"

The people in these programs are usually on probation after a domestic violence offense, such as domestic assault or domestic battery against a partner, spouse, or family member. Some courts also require an intake meeting, group discussions, or a final evaluation. Online programs like ours skip the group meeting and the waiting room.

How Many Hours Long Is a Domestic Violence Class?

One weekly class usually takes 1 to 2 hours. In-person groups often run a 2-hour session. Online classes are self-paced, so the time is different for each person. A 26-week program adds up to roughly 26 to 52 hours of class time. A 52-week program adds up to about 52 to 104 hours.

Hours assume 1 to 2 hours per weekly class. Prices from the published Transformations BIP fee schedule, 2026: first 4 classes free with the 16-class minimum program, then $21 per class.

At Transformations BIP, every class has three parts: a video, a reading, and a quiz that asks how the lesson applies to your own life. There is no live meeting to sit through and no waiting room.

Who Decides How Long My Domestic Violence Classes Are?

The court decides. The number of classes is written in your court order, plea agreement, or probation terms. The program you choose cannot shorten it, and a good program will not pretend it can. If your paperwork does not list a number, ask your probation officer or attorney before you enroll.

How Long Are Domestic Violence Classes in California and Other States?

Some states write the length into law. California requires a batterer's program of not less than one year, with weekly sessions of at least two hours and no more than three excused absences (California Penal Code 1203.097). That is why almost every California order is a 52-week program. California also requires prior court approval before you can take the program online.

Most other states leave the number to the judge, which is why 26 and 52 both show up so often. Use the exact number on your court order.

For people convicted of domestic violence offenses, the judge, the plea deal, or the probation terms determine the total number of classes. In-person group sessions and online classes count the same way, one class per week, as long as your court accepts the format. An anger management class does not count toward a batterers intervention program, so do not swap one for the other. If you are not sure what your order means, ask your attorney or a legal aid office before you pay.

What Do DV Classes Cover Each Week?

Each week of a batterers intervention program covers one topic. Early classes explain what domestic violence and abuse are, including physical, verbal, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse. Middle classes cover power and control, the effect of abusive behavior on a partner and children, and accountability. Later classes focus on attitudes, alternatives to violence, and a plan for the future. The curriculum is education, not a test you can fail. Participation and attendance are what the court looks at.

What Happens If I Miss a Week?

A missed week counts as an absence, and absences can add time to your program or violate your probation terms. Too many absences can mean starting over, extra fees, or a trip back in front of the judge, and in some cases jail time for a probation violation. Programs are weekly, so skipping a week does not pause the clock. At Transformations BIP, each class must be turned in by Sunday night to count for that week. Classes are open 24 hours a day, so a late shift or a busy weekend is not an excuse you need.

How Do I Prove I Am Making Progress?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I finish domestic violence classes faster?
For most cases, no. Most courts allow only one class per week, so a 26-class program takes about 6 months. Some cases do allow more than one class per week, often when the court just wants the program done by a certain date. Follow the guidelines in your own case.

How long is a 52-week domestic violence class?
About one year, with 52 weekly classes of 1 to 2 hours each. This is the standard length in California.

Is there a deadline?
Usually yes. Your probation terms often set a date. Start early. Since the first 4 classes are free and you can begin the same day, there is no reason to wait.

What convictions require DV classes?
Usually a domestic violence offense against a partner, spouse, or family member, such as domestic assault, domestic battery, or violating a protective order. The judge decides at sentencing or as a term of probation.

What if I drop out of the intervention program?
Dropping out is reported as non-completion. That is a probation violation in most cases. If life gets in the way, contact the program and your probation officer before you miss a week, not after.

Does enrollment expire?
Not at Transformations BIP. Your enrollment has no expiration date. Your court deadline is the one to watch.

Classes are educational in nature and are not counseling or therapy. Not available in Oklahoma or Washington state. California requires prior court approval for online classes. Always confirm acceptance with your attorney, probation officer, or the court before enrolling.