Visiting someone behind bars can be an intimidating experience. Before you go, it’s important to make sure you’re aware of the expectations and rules each prison has in place for visitors. From knowing what to wear and what items are allowed, to understanding the visitation process, there are a few key things to keep in mind before you visit an inmate. Here is a helpful guide on what to know before you go when visiting inmates in prison.
We all know that people go to prison as punishment for committing a crime. In addition, some people may be sent to prison as a result of probation violations or other legal matters. The length of time someone spends in prison depends on a variety of factors. This includes the severity of the crime, any mitigating circumstances, and often judicial discretion. Depending on these factors, someone may serve a sentence that lasts anywhere from months to years. Regardless of the situation, it is important for people to understand why someone has been sentenced and what their rights are while in prison.
Prisons also have different levels of security. Depending on the type of crime and its severity, people may be placed in a minimum security prison or a maximum security facility. Each level of security dictates the amount of contact those in prison are allowed to have with visitors. Knowing which type of facility your loved one is housed in can help you better understand the rules and expectations. For example, Lucas County booking in New York is a high security county jail, and the rules for visitors include that they should not be a felon, and they must have a relevant government ID. Some prisons are still asking visitors to follow a set of Covid-19 rules and testing requirements.
If you’re planning to visit an inmate in prison, what else should you expect, and how can you better prepare yourself?
What to Wear
When visiting an inmate, it is important to be aware of the prison’s dress code. While it is not always the same in every state and prison, most places require visitors to dress conservatively and modestly. Some facilities may even expect visitors to wear a collared shirt and khakis. Most places also require that visitors remove hats, sunglasses, jewelry, and other accessories.
What to Bring
It is also important to know what items are allowed and prohibited for visitors in the facility. Generally speaking, most prisons do not allow food, drinks, cameras, weapons, and cell phones. If you are bringing a child with you to visit the inmate, they may also be subject to the same rules and restrictions.
The Visiting Process
When visiting an inmate, it is important to know the visiting process and what to expect. Generally speaking, most prisons require visitors to check in at the reception desk or security checkpoint. From there, you will be asked to provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license. After that, most visitors are then searched and must sign in before they can enter the prison’s visiting area.
Where You Will See The Inmate
When you go to visit an inmate, you will be taken to a secure visiting area where the inmate is waiting for you. Depending on the security level of the facility, you may be allowed to interact with the inmate directly or through a glass partition. Guards will usually be present during the visit, and visitation times may be limited.
How Often You Can Visit
The frequency of your visits will depend on the security level of the prison, as well as other factors. Generally speaking, higher security levels mean less frequent visits. In most cases, visitors will be limited to two hours per visit and are usually allowed to visit at least once a month. You will need to be on an approved visitor list in order to visit an inmate, and you may need to fill out additional paperwork.
Dealing With the Emotional Side of a Prison Visit
Visiting a loved one in prison can be an emotionally challenging experience. It is important to remember that it is normal to feel upset or overwhelmed during a visit. It is also important to understand that the inmate’s behavior may not be the same as it was before they were sentenced. The best way to prepare for a prison visit is to stay positive, have realistic expectations, and be honest about your feelings.
How To Keep An Inmate Upbeat During Visits
The best way to keep an inmate upbeat during visits is to focus on the positive. Talk about happy memories, life outside of prison, and potential plans for the future. Focusing on anything that might provide comfort or hope can help boost an inmate’s mood and make them feel a little bit better during their time in prison.
Conclusion
Visiting an inmate in prison can be a difficult experience for both the visitor and the inmate. It is important to be aware of the prison’s regulations, dress code, and items that are allowed in the facility. Additionally, it is important to understand the visiting process and be prepared for the emotional side of a prison visit. Finally, try to focus on the positive and provide comfort and hope during the visit. Doing so can help keep an inmate upbeat and make their time in prison a little bit easier. Remember that we are all human, and visiting someone in prison might not feel how you expect it to. Get your own support from friends, family or a therapist if you find it to be especially difficult to deal with.
