It takes some planning to visit someone in prison.You need to make sure that you are on the visiting list when you know which prison the prisoner is in.This could require a letter from the prisoner.On the day that you are going to visit, you must dress nicely and not bring in items that are forbidden.Once you understand the ground rules, you should be able to visit.
Step 1: Find the prisoner.
You need to know which prison the prisoner is in.You can use online services in most states.You can find inmates in Illinois prisons by visiting the Illinois Department ofCorrections website.You can search by date of birth or last name.You can find a prisoner in the federal system by visiting the Federal Bureau of Prisons and entering the prisoner's Inmate Register Number.You can find a prisoner in England and Wales.Email and fax numbers are provided for you to use.
Step 2: There is a website for the prison.
Many prisons have websites.You can find important information on the website.You can find out how to schedule a visit on the website.Information about what you can bring is important to you.
Step 3: Ask about the restrictions.
If the prison does not have a website, you need to ask about the restrictions.You can use the Internet to find the prison phone number.You need to speak to someone at the prison directly if you want to visit.Find out how to get put on the prisoner's list, what identification you need, and what items are not allowed in the prison.
Step 4: You should be placed on the visiting list by the prisoner.
If you want to visit, you need to be put on the visiting list.Prison officials will have to clear you to visit once you are put on the list.The prisoners are asked to create a visiting list.The inmates list family members, friends, and professionals.You must be added to the list before you can visit.If you want to be put on, you will need to write a letter and request it.You should include relevant information, such as your full name, address, and phone number.
Step 5: You need to complete a visitor application.
You will need to complete a visitor application in some prisons.All information should be completed accurately and completely.If you don't enter, you may be denied entrance.Sometimes these applications will be sent to you before you arrive at the prison, and in some prisons you will fill them out as you wait to be admitted.
Step 6: Before you leave, call.
No one can enter when prisons go into lockdown.If inmates are put in solitary confinement, they can lose their privileges.If you don't want to go to the prison, you should call and ask if the hours are being kept the same.
Step 7: It's appropriate to dress appropriately.
If you are dressed provocatively, prison authorities might deny you entrance.You don't need to dress up, but you should aim for a conservative style of dress.
Step 8: You can find parking.
You should have plenty of time to find the parking and the prison.You should arrive 15-20 minutes early so that you can fill out the paperwork.
Step 9: There are prohibited items in the car.
There is a limit on what can be brought into the prison.You can rent lockers in prisons for a quarter.You can put items in the lockers that you don't want to leave in your car.Visitors can only bring in your identification single car key eyeglasses bills or change to use with the vending machine a bottle and diaper for a baby.
Step 10: It's necessary to bring sufficient identification.
Valid identification is needed to prove who you are.A valid driver's license or passport is sufficient.A valid government-issued identification card should work if you don't have one.You should check with the prison before you show up for the visit.It is important that you have an acceptable form of identification.
Step 11: Go through security.
You will need to go through a metal detector.Drug sniffing dogs may be present to find people who are transporting drugs.
Step 12: Talk in a quiet way.
You should behave in a respectable manner during the visit.The security is keeping an eye on the area.Don't cause too much noise or distraction and be respectful of those around you.You may not be able to touch as much as you want.At the beginning and end of the visit, prisons can allow hugs, handshakes, and kisses.The guards stationed at the prison may limit touching so that visitors aren't trying to smuggle things to the prisoners.You should comply with the order if the guard tells you to stop touching.If you don't comply, you may be removed from the visit.