Getting in touch with an inmate typically involves using approved communication methods established by the facility where they are incarcerated. These methods vary by institution but often include mail, phone calls, email, or in-person visitation. Here's a detailed guide:
1. Sending Mail
- Traditional Letters: Most facilities allow inmates to receive letters. Include the inmate's full name, ID number, and the facility's address. Be sure to follow the facility’s guidelines on paper, envelope size, and content.
- Photographs: You can include approved photographs (non-explicit, no Polaroids).
- Mail Rules: Avoid sending prohibited items such as stickers, staples, or cash. Check with the facility for specific rules.
2. Phone Calls
- Inmate-Initiated Calls: Inmates typically must call you; you cannot call them. They can call numbers that are pre-approved and added to their contact list.
- Phone Account Setup:
- Deposit funds into the inmate's phone account through services like JPay, GTL/ConnectNetwork, or Access Corrections.
- Alternatively, set up an AdvancePay® account for collect calls.
- Call Monitoring: Calls are usually recorded and monitored for security reasons.
3. Email Services
- Electronic Messaging: Many facilities allow email-like communication through services such as JPay, GTL/ConnectNetwork, or CorrLinks (used in federal facilities).
- Setting Up an Account:
- Register on the facility’s designated service provider.
- Add the inmate using their ID number.
- Messages may have length restrictions and are monitored.
4. In-Person Visitation
- Scheduling Visits: Contact the facility or use its online system to schedule a visit. Some facilities allow walk-in visitation on specified days.
- Visitation Rules: Follow dress codes and guidelines on acceptable behavior. Bring valid photo identification.
- Video Visitation: If in-person visits are restricted, some facilities offer video visitation through providers like GTL or Telmate.
5. Sending Money
- While this doesn’t establish direct contact, depositing funds into an inmate’s commissary account enables them to make phone calls or use email services. You can send money through approved methods like JPay, Western Union, or Access Corrections.
6. Special Programs
- Mail-a-Letter Services: Some services allow you to send pre-written letters or postcards digitally, which the facility prints and delivers to the inmate.
- Books and Magazines: Sending approved reading materials directly from vendors like Amazon can help maintain contact in a supportive way.
7. Legal and Emergency Contact
- Emergency Contact: If there’s an urgent need to contact the inmate, reach out to the facility and speak with a case manager or chaplain.
- Legal Counsel: Attorneys can arrange legal visits or communicate directly with inmates under specific privileges.
Important Considerations
- Facility Policies: Rules on communication methods vary widely. Always check the specific facility’s guidelines before attempting to contact an inmate.
- Approval Process: Some facilities require you to be on an inmate’s approved contact or visitation list.
- Monitoring: All communications (except privileged legal correspondence) are monitored for security.
By choosing one or more of these approved methods, you can maintain regular contact with an incarcerated loved one.