adminThe date has been set for visiting day for someone serving time away from home. What things do you need to be mindful of in order to make the most of this experience?
Someone’s prison visiting room can help with your healing, even if you’re the one who went to the prison. You may have already had a visit, but you’re wondering what you can do better or what you should prepare for.
This can be an overwhelming experience. You have things going through your mind, wondering what you should prepare beforehand.
Here are a few do’s and don’ts to help you make the most of your visit.
The Do’s of Spending Time in a Prison Visiting Room
When spending time in a prison visiting room, it’s important to adhere to rules and guidelines to ensure a smooth and respectful visitation experience for you, your loved one, and other visitors. Here are some important “do’s” to consider:
Plan Ahead
Know the exact time and place for the visit, and arrive early. Research the facility guidelines, as all facilities have different restrictions and requirements, such as what items to bring. Pack light to avoid problems with the facility’s security policies. Bring only necessary items for the visit, like your photo ID, paperwork, and cash for vending machines.
It is important to check in with the staff professionally upon your arrival. Be prepared for metal detectors and full body searches. If you want to learn more about the prison system and visit an inmate yourself, check Jail and Inmate Search first.
Arrive Early
It makes sure that the visiting process runs smoothly and helps to avoid any unnecessary delays. Plus, this will allow plenty of time to go through security, which can take some time.
Visitors should also plan for long lines and potentially longer wait times. Make sure to bring any necessary forms or paperwork required as well. Being prepared and arriving early will allow visitors to spend quality time with their family or friends without any issues.
Follow Dress Code
All visitors, regardless of age, must adhere to the dress code. This means no tank tops, halter tops, low-cut shirts, and form-fitting clothing that might be deemed inappropriate. Shoes should also be appropriate and not have metal tips. Additionally, any clothing containing profane language or graphics is prohibited.
On the other hand, visitors should wear clothing indicative of family unity. Wearing visible clothing, such as matching shirts with the inmate’s name, is unacceptable. In some instances, hats and other articles of apparel may also be prohibited.
Bring Only Approved Items
Each correctional facility may have different policies about what is considered an approved item, so it is important to check beforehand. Items such as cameras, cellphones, purses, wallets, electronics, and firearms are prohibited. Visitors may bring certain items, such as small children’s toys, food, books, magazines, and religious items.
It is also important to limit the number of items and not bring any packages from outside the facility. Following the prison rules set by the detention center can ensure that each visit goes smoothly.
Be Supportive
Listen attentively to what the prisoner is saying. Show understanding and empathy. It’s also important to carefully watch your words, tone, and body language. Describe the prisoner’s strengths and point out potential solutions to remain constructive and positive.
They can make better choices when released and offer a clear action plan. Let the prisoners know that they’re being supported and that they’re not alone – that you’re there for them. If possible, give the prisoner information and resources that might be helpful to them during their time in prison. Or, ask what the prisoner needs and offer tangible help if you’re able.
The Don’ts of Spending Time in a Prison Visiting Room
When visiting a prisoner, being aware of the “don’ts” is crucial to ensure a respectful and smooth visitation experience. Violating prison rules or showing disrespect can lead to your visit being terminated or future visitation privileges being revoked. Here are some important “don’ts” to keep in mind:
Don’t Bring Contraband
Contraband is any unauthorized item that a prison does not allow. This includes cell phones, weapons, drugs, alcohol, food, cigarettes, money, and more. Bringing these items into the prison could result in criminal charges, arrests, and other punishments.
It is important to follow the dress code, which may require you to limit the amount of jewelry and clothing you wear. On a more serious level, it is illegal to assist prisoners in escaping from the prison in any way. It is also important to respect the prison staff while in the prison visiting room.
Don’t Display Affection Inappropriately
It is to refrain from displaying affection inappropriately. This includes kissing, hugging, hand-holding, or other physical intimacies.
Emotional outbursts and passionate displays of affection could be misinterpreted, leading to consequences for both the visitor and the inmate. It is also important to keep distance between the visitor and the inmate to help maintain a professional atmosphere.
Don’t Violate Privacy
It should refrain from openly discussing sensitive topics during conversations when visiting. This includes topics such as prison life, resources available, or other details that could be considered confidential. This should not take pictures or record conversations as this is a violation of the prisoners’ privacy.
Respect should also be given to staff who are supervising the visits by not questioning their authority or the procedures that are in place. All visitors should remain aware that conversations are being monitored and should remain above reproach in their demeanor or word choice.
Don’t Bring Minors Unaccompanied
Minors who are under 18 must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or approved adult sponsor. The accompanying adult must have a valid government-issued photo and must be approved by the corrections facility, usually by completing some paperwork.
There may be additional restrictions, such as no overnight stays. Bringing minors unaccompanied to prison visiting rooms could put both the visitor and inmate at risk.
Act Responsibly To Ensure A Positive Atmosphere In The Prison Visiting Room
A prison visiting room can be a rewarding experience if the appropriate rules and regulations are followed. Make sure to check with the prison beforehand to learn their guidelines and mandates to ensure a successful, safe experience.
Keep in mind all the dos and don’ts to help make the most out of spending time in the visiting room and maximize the quality of time spent with your loved one. Go ahead and plan a visit today!
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