8 Things to Expect
Visiting a
Loved One in Jail

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8 Things to Expect Visiting a

Loved One in Jail

Visiting your loved one at a county jail can be a stressful and emotionally trying experience. For most people, the process is completely unfamiliar, which adds to the anxiety of the situation. Knowing what to expect, and planning ahead, will help to calm your nerves and ensure that your visit goes as smoothly as possible.

1. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE UP-TO-DATE, ACCURATE INFORMATION.

Most jails in the U.S. are operated by local sheriff’s departments. Contacting the sheriff’s office in the county where your loved one is incarcerated is the best way to get up-to-date and accurate information regarding visitation. Many jails have easy to navigate websites which provide the public with vital information like visitation hours and other regulations.

2. SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT.

Make sure to check with your local sheriff’s office to find out when your loved one will be available for a visit. Inmates are typically granted at least one social visit per week, but they may be responsible for setting up the session in advance themselves. The jail will limit inmates to a certain number of visits per week and usually no more than one visit per day. Therefore, you may want to coordinate a schedule with other potential visitors.

Inmates who are segregated for health reasons, security concerns, or rule violations may have significantly reduced visitation opportunities. While visits are generally limited to just one adult per session, many jails will allow you to bring one minor child as well. Make sure the child is well behaved and mature enough to handle the adult-like atmosphere of a jail visit.

3. ARRIVE EARLY.

Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes early for your scheduled session. Most county jails are overcrowded and understaffed, and there are very often long lines entering visitation rooms.

4. BE SMART ABOUT WHAT YOU BRING WITH YOU.

Make sure you have a valid state I.D. with you at check in.

Jails do not allow cell phones into the building. The best practice is to leave your technology at home or in the car. Some jails have lockers to store your belongings during the visit, so it’s a good idea to bring coins.

Security is tight for all jail visitors. You will almost certainly have to pass through a checkpoint with metal detectors and armed guards, so avoid wearing jewelry, underwire bras or body piercings. Check carefully what you carry. Do not bring contraband of any kind — no knives, razors or weapons. This includes your vehicle. You are NOT allowed to bring any weapon on the property. They search vehicles and you will be turned away if they find a prohibited item in your vehicle.

Call the facility to determine what you are allowed to bring. Cigarettes, coins for vending machines, etc. Every facility is different. Be aware – Many jails use drug sniffing dogs, scans or vacuums on visitors for drug residue.

5. KNOW THE RULES AND FOLLOW THEM.

Do not ask for or expect special treatment. Instead, learn the rules beforehand and follow them. Be patient and polite to the corrections officers. The officers may not always show you the same courtesy, but try to remember that they have a difficult and stressful job. If you believe you are not being treated appropriately, explain how you called ahead to inquire about the rules, what you were told, and what you need. Politely ask to speak with a supervisor.

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