Has your loved one been booked into jail? This experience is stressful enough without having to worry about whether or not you will be allowed to see them during a jail visit. And naturally, visits boost inmates’ spirits too.
Read up on the regulations and rules surrounding jail visits in Wake County, so that you can be prepared.
Everything You Need To Know Before A Jail Visit
When And How Do Visitations Take Place?
Visiting hours at the Wake County Detention Center take place Monday-Thursday, with the exception of holidays. Visits may be conducted between the hours of 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., and from 4:00 p.m.- 6:30 p.m.
All visits must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. Each inmate is permitted one 30-minute jail visit per week, with up to two visitors (two adults, or one adult and one child) permitted during the visit.
Wake County offers only video visitation with detained inmates.
Who May Visit An Inmate?
Anyone who is over the age of 18, or a minor who is accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. Those over the age of 16 will be required to show a government-issued ID.
In addition, potential visitors will need to complete an application in advance of the visit, and return it to the Wake County Sheriff’s Office.
There are certain people whose applications will be denied, including those who:
- Are a co-defendant with the inmate in a pending case
- Have a warrant out for their arrest
- Are on felony probation, or have previously been convicted of a felony
- Have been ordered by the court not to have contact with the inmate
- Do not pass a background check
What Happens When Visitors Arrive?
Visitors to the jail will be asked to leave all personal belongings except their ID either in their vehicle or in a locker. No items are allowed to be given to the inmate. Any visitor who attempts to bring contraband into the facility will be asked to leave, will be prosecuted, and will have future visit applications denied.
Is There A Dress Code?
Yes. Jail visits may be denied to anyone who wears inappropriate clothing, including but not limited to:
- Sheer or see-through clothing, or any clothes that reveal undergarments
- Skirts or dresses that do not reach mid-thigh or lower
- Gang-related clothing
- Sleeveless shirts, or those with sleeves that do not reach at least halfway down the upper arm
- Any garment that depicts profanity, obscenity, drug use or gun use
In addition, anyone who is intoxicated or disruptive will not be allowed to visit their loved ones, even if they meet all other criteria. Children who are brought to the detention center must be supervised at all times.
The jail staff may also, at their own discretion, deny the right of visitation to anyone, for any reason.
The Benefits Of Jail Visitation
A jail visit from friends and loved ones are undeniably comforting; some studies have even shown that visits can reduce depressive symptoms, rule-breaking behavior, and recidivism.
It’s understandable, then, that having a visitor turned away because they didn’t understand the rules of visitation can be devastating for the inmate. Follow these rules for your own sake, and for that of your loved one.
What About Bond?
While visitation is helpful, it’s always better to have your loved one at home with you while their legal troubles are being sorted. If you are thinking of posting bond, or have questions about how bond works, use this convenient contact form. Raleigh Bail Bonds can assist you during this difficult time.