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Domestic Violence Early Intervention Program Hon. Marylin E. Atkins, Chief Judge and Project Coordinator The 36th District Court Domestic Violence Early Intervention Program (DVIP) is an innovative program started in 1994 in an effort, by the Court, to reduce domestic violence by educating defendants about domestic violence and its adverse effect on them and their families. The DVIP is held at the 36th District Court every Saturday, 52 weeks a year. As a condition of their bond, attendance is mandatory. The goal of DVIP is to make the defendant aware that his/her behavior was incorrect, that he/she has a problem, and persuade him/her to take responsibility for their actions. Although the class is not a counseling session, the defendants are urged to follow their cases to completion instead of continuing the cycle of violence by persuading and/or threatening their partner not to appear so the case will be dismissed. The class includes group discussions, video presentations and information on the legal process. DVIP is a proactive effort by the Court to help stop the cycle of violence for families in Detroit. DVIP has effectively made a difference in how batterers are handled through the court process. For More Information Call: Catherine Mullins: (313) 965-5689 |
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