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Must read Terms of Service & Privacy Policy and be at least 18

Must read Terms of Service & Privacy Policy and be at least 18

Prison Visitation - Benefits and Practices

Prison Visitation Benefits Everyone

 

The United States has the largest inmate population in the world. Today, more than 1 out of 100 adults is incarcerated. Over the past decade, this demographic has tripled[1]. These millions of men and women have friends and family who desire to visit them during their incarceration. As such, each state and/or facility has developed guidelines governing prison visitation with the ultimate goal of maintaining order and safety of the visitors and inmates alike, as well as ensuring the security of the facility. Prison visitation is an integral component of inmate rehabilitation and community safety. “Visiting can improve public safety, encourage responsible familial relationships and reduce the risk of future criminal behavior”[2].

In order to visit an inmate in prison, one must be prepared to comply with these litany of rules and regulations. Processes for prison visitation may vary from state to state. However, typically, a potential visitor must locate the inmate, apply to be approved for visitation, prepare for the visitation and plan the trip accordingly[3]. In Florida, in advance of a prison visitation, everyone over the age of twelve (12) must apply for the visitation with the appropriate and approved forms. These can be located online through the Department of Corrections website. Upon completion of the application, the document should be mailed to the facility which houses the inmate. Conservatively, one should expect the approval process to take thirty (30) days for review. Factors considered for approval include completeness of the application, previous criminal history of the candidate interested in the prison visitation, along with the accuracy of statements and facts contained within the application[4].

In Florida, the facility will notify the inmate whether the application has been approved for the prison visitation. At such time, the inmate will communicate the results with the potential visitor to coordinate the meeting. While the rules may vary from state to state, one should be cognizant of the fact that there are guidelines for dress. When in doubt, it is best to dress conservatively and avoid form fitting or see-through clothing, as well as anything that can be deemed profane, obscene or offensive, or clothing that depicts illegal activity. Be sure to wear underwear, as visitors are subject to extensive searches.

As one prepares for the prison visitation, he/she should also be aware of personal effects that could be detected by the metal detectors. These items can include hair pins, certain types of jewelry, zippers, some bras. To avoid denial of entry, additional searches, or any embarrassment, one should wear simple and plain clothes, devoid of intricate details or accessories[5].

While it is seemingly common sense that one should not bring contraband, to include illicit drugs, alcohol, tobacco or weapons, a potential visitor should refrain from bringing cell phones, cameras, recording devices, laptops or other electronic devices into any facility as well. It is important to note that most facilities are tobacco-free, so one should be discouraged from bringing even personal tobacco products in with you. Leave them at home or in the car.

Depending on the facility and/or state, an inmate may have a limit on number of visitors on the approved list of prison visitation. He/she may also have a limit on the number of visits per week too. In North Carolina, for example, there are numerous stipulations established for visitation[6]. An inmate’s Administrative and Disciplinary segregation also garner a modified schedule of visitation. However, there is seemingly no limit placed upon clergy, legal, and/or law enforcement visitation to a particular inmate.

The prison visitation schedule can be established by the state and/or warden of a particular institution. This, too, varies from state to state. By its mere nature, a prison operates on a 24 hours/7 days a week schedule. Therefore, most, if not all facilities have weekend and holiday visitation available. Again, it will vary state by state, and facility by facility, but, there is also a time limit on the visitation. In an effort to reduce overcrowding, some institutions alternate days offenders can receive visitors based on alphabetical order and/or ID number[7].

During the visitation, it is essential that one follow all rules and regulations of the facility. In particular, it is important to show respect to the prison guards. While it is understandable to have some sort of feeling of resentment toward them or the system, it should be appreciated that they are merely performing a necessary job. One should conduct themselves with grace and dignity in order to preserve future visitation privileges. In addition, there are other people there seeking to visit with their loved ones. Any outbursts or disruptive behavior could adversely impact others’ visitation with their family.

On the whole, contact between the visitor and inmate is discouraged or expressly prohibited. The exception to this is handshakes, hugs and kisses deemed in “good taste” at beginning and end of the visit. However, these regulations will also vary. There are six states which still allow conjugal visits between offenders and family members[8].

A successful prison visitation is not only to help improve the morale of the inmate, but also, help the visitor come to terms with the numerous emotions he/she could be experiencing. It also shows one’s commitment and love to the family member or friend during a very difficult time. Visitation by family and friends is encouraged and can be a positive influence during an inmate’s time in prison, as well as after the inmate’s release. Regular visitation assists individuals re-entering the community by helping to preserve healthy relationships with family and friends.

View our self-help guide on prison visitation: Tips for Visiting Prison:  For Individuals Visiting Loved Ones Behind Bars [https://writeaprisoner.com/self-help/tips-for-visiting-prison.aspx]