How to Visit Someone in Jail Before Their Trial

Nobody wants to find their loved ones behind bars. But sadly, one must face reality and gather the courage to deal with the present situation gracefully. When you find someone close to you is in jail, you cannot just turn your back on that person. He is not guilty until proved so. Therefore, before the trial starts, he must not be treated like a criminal. In good faith, you should visit your friend in prison to provide them with moral support.

Once you successfully locate and meet your loved ones, comfort them with the knowledge that a bail bond can easily and quickly secure their release before their trial. With their support, you can fast-track the bail application and walk home with them the very same day. It is always better to look for a local bondsman to obtain a quick bail. People in California may access affordably bail bonds San Diego for a hassle-free release from jail.

Carry Identification While Visiting: Correctional facilities will usually accept any valid state-issued photo ID, such as U.S. passport book or card, driver’s license, certificate of naturalization, certificate of citizenship, government employee ID, U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), or a learner’s permit. Nowadays, digital IDs are also permitted.

What to Wear: Dress codes can vary depending on the institution, but as a rule of thumb, attire must be appropriate for the situation. The facility provides a list of the rules and regulations, mentioning dress code and proper conduct.

• Clothing cannot resemble the official staff clothing or inmate’s uniforms. Dress as you would for a casual interview, usually in a simple shirt, trousers or jeans, and shoes. Sheer or skimpy clothing is strictly prohibited, and knees and arms must be covered.
• Jewelry is restricted, and medical scrubs, uniforms, and sleeveless shirts are not allowed. Your clothing should not have any offensive pictures or messages and cover up any tattoos similar to that.

Visitation: Arrive half an hour early on the stipulated day to complete checking and any paperwork in time. Usually, 1-2 hours is the permissible duration of a visit, but authorities may allow more time depending on the crowd and social distancing requirements. Moreover, it also depends on whether the inmate is liked and well behaved.

• Visits are first come, first served. At the parking lot, the staff can go through all of your belongings and car storage. Once you enter the facility, you will be thoroughly checked again via a pat-down and a medical detector or canine units to ensure the safety of the prison staff and inmates.
• Non-contact (through glass) meetings usually last up to an hour, whereas multiple-hour visits may be possible outside (in a fenced area) on a picnic table. The facility rules dictate how much physical contact is allowed and even where to sit.
• Maintain proper decorum as not all correctional officers are liberal and forgiving. They might cut your visit short for something as minor as too much excitement or physical contact.

With proper preparation and knowledge, this can be a stress-free experience. Always revert to the facilities to know more about any visiting conditions and requirements. For the contact information of county and city jails in San Diego, refer to their websites.