How Do I Visit An Inmate In Georgia? Easy Steps

Visiting an inmate in Georgia can be a complex process, but with the right information, you can navigate it with ease. The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) is responsible for overseeing the state’s prison system, which includes 34 state prisons, 12 private prisons, and 17 probation detention centers. To visit an inmate in Georgia, follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Determine the Inmate’s Eligibility for Visitation Before you can visit an inmate, you need to ensure that they are eligible for visitation. The GDC has a set of rules and guidelines that govern inmate visitation, including the type of crime committed, the inmate’s behavior, and the visitor’s relationship to the inmate. You can check the GDC’s website or contact the prison directly to confirm the inmate’s eligibility.

Step 2: Get Approved as a Visitor To visit an inmate in Georgia, you must first get approved as a visitor. This involves submitting a visitor application, which can be obtained from the prison or downloaded from the GDC’s website. The application will require you to provide personal information, such as your name, address, and date of birth, as well as information about the inmate you wish to visit. You will also need to provide identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, and proof of citizenship.

Step 3: Choose a Visitation Schedule Once you have been approved as a visitor, you can choose a visitation schedule that works for you. The GDC has a set visitation schedule, which varies depending on the prison and the inmate’s housing unit. You can check the GDC’s website or contact the prison directly to confirm the visitation schedule.

Step 4: Prepare for the Visit Before you visit the inmate, make sure you are prepared. This includes:

• Arriving at least 30 minutes before the scheduled visitation time
• Bringing a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport
• Wearing appropriate clothing, such as modest attire that covers the shoulders and knees
• Leaving all personal belongings, such as cell phones and wallets, in your vehicle or at home
• Bringing only approved items, such as snacks and drinks, into the visitation area

Step 5: Follow Visitation Rules and Guidelines When you arrive at the prison, you will need to follow the visitation rules and guidelines. This includes:

• Signing in and out of the visitation area
• Going through security screening, such as metal detectors and pat-downs
• Remaining in the designated visitation area
• Refraining from bringing in contraband, such as drugs or weapons
• Respecting the inmate and other visitors

Step 6: Use the Visitation Facilities The GDC provides visitation facilities at each prison, which include:

• A visitation room or area where you can meet with the inmate
• A vending machine or snack bar where you can purchase snacks and drinks
• A restroom or restroom facilities
• A waiting area or lobby where you can wait before or after the visit

Additional Tips and Reminders

• Make sure to check the GDC’s website or contact the prison directly for any updates or changes to the visitation schedule or rules.
• Bring a copy of your visitor application and identification to the prison, in case you need to verify your information.
• Be respectful of the inmate, other visitors, and prison staff.
• Follow all instructions and guidelines provided by prison staff.
• Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity or behavior to prison staff.

By following these easy steps and tips, you can navigate the process of visiting an inmate in Georgia with ease. Remember to always follow the rules and guidelines, and be respectful of the inmate, other visitors, and prison staff. With the right information and preparation, you can make the most of your visit and stay connected with your loved one.