Visitation — Ask the Inmate
A visit is one of the most powerful experiences available to both an incarcerated person and their family. The physical presence of someone who loves you, even across a table or through glass, communicates something that letters and phone calls cannot fully replicate. But the visitation process involves rules, approvals, background checks, and scheduling requirements that can be confusing and discouraging for first-time visitors. This section covers how to apply to be on an inmate's visitor list, what the background check process looks like and what disqualifies a visitor, what to expect on your first visit including what to wear, what you can bring, and how the visit itself is conducted, how contact visits differ from non-contact visits, what children need to know before visiting an incarcerated parent, and how to make the most of limited visitation time. The guidance here is practical and comes from people who have been on both sides of the visitation table. See also our sections on Family Services, Relationship Issues, and Inmate Phone Calls.
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Yes, that is the baseline rule for every visiting approval - people with a felony record are immediately removed from consideration. BUT, that is not always the end of the road. You can (and definitely should) write a nice, humble letter to the warder and "appeal your case". Don't dwell on your former charge or when it was, but more importantly how you have a plan to help the inmate to not re-offend. To help them become a good citizen
Read moreThe only way to appeal it is to write the warden. Take a humble approach and be very respectful when communicating. They have the final say. If you are pushy or demanding, you will get nowhere.
Read moreWe recommend calling them directly (972-441-6160) to make sure there are no current restrictions (due to COVID)
Read moreNo, you will need to have some contact with that inmate and find out if you need to be on "their visiting list" to gain access.
Read moreCDCR has launched limited video visiting to allow friends and family to safely connect with incarcerated people, beginning at five institutions by Nov. 28 with more added through the end of the year. In-person visiting remains canceled statewide until further notice as part of the department’s COVID-19 response. Under the new system, each inmate will have the opportunity for a free 30-minute video visit every 30 days. Visits will take place on weekends and holidays, between 8:30 a.m. and
Read moreHe will have the option to remove you again if he is adamant about not seeing you right now. You might start by writing him a letter and seeing if you can work things out before resubmitting.
Read moreYou might find that attitude in any walk of life. The cashier at Walmart, the nurse at your doctor's office or the deli man at the grocery could all have "a bad day". For you to think that YOU need to kiss their ass is an indictment on your attitude. WAKE UP, this isn't a hotel or restaurant. The guards are not social workers, they are paid to oversee prisoners, not patrons. YOU follow their rules without arrogance or don't
Read moreYes, you can come to any of the Broward County jails with a photo ID. Visitors must have proper / current photo identification. (NO IDENTIFICATION - NO VISIT) Visitors must be on time. Visitors must abide by the dress code. Visitors may be subjected to a pat-down / frisk search and / or electronic search for the detection of contraband. Children must be accompanied by an adult and supervised at all times. Visitors cannot be on parole, probation, or
Read moreProbably in a week or so
Read moreSpecial visits are up to the warden. If your visitor makes a compelling case for the special visit, they usually allow them. If your visitor is traveling over 150 miles, they almost always grant the special visit.
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