Phone Privilege
Phone privilege refers to an inmate's access to the facility phone system, which can be granted, restricted, or revoked based on behavior and facility rules. Phone access is a privilege rather than a right in correctional facilities. Violations such as attempting three-way calling, using abusive language, or receiving disciplinary sanctions can result in temporary or permanent loss of phone privileges.
What Is Phone Privilege?
When an inmate loses phone privileges, families receive no advance notice and simply stop receiving calls. Common reasons for phone privilege loss include disciplinary violations, attempted three-way calling, use of profanity or threats during calls, and placement in the SHU or restrictive housing.
If calls suddenly stop with no explanation, the inmate may have lost phone privileges. The only way to find out is for the inmate to send a letter or for the family to contact the facility case manager directly.
Related Terms
Explore other glossary terms that are closely connected to this topic.
Three-Way Calling
Three-way calling refers to adding a third person to an active phone call, which is strictly prohibited at all correctional facilities.
Facility TypesSHU
SHU stands for Special Housing Unit, which is a segregated area of a correctional facility where inmates are held separately from the general population for disciplinary reasons or for their own protection.
CommunicationApproved Contact List
An approved contact list is the list of people an inmate is authorized to communicate with through phone calls, messages, or visits.
AdministrationLockdown
A lockdown is a security measure at a correctional facility where all inmates are confined to their cells and normal activities including phone calls, visits, and programming are suspended.
People Also Ask
Related questions families often search for alongside this topic.
What is Three-Way Calling?
Three-way calling refers to adding a third person to an active phone call, which is strictly prohibited at all correctional facilities.
Read full definitionWhat is SHU?
SHU stands for Special Housing Unit, which is a segregated area of a correctional facility where inmates are held separately from the general population for disciplinary reasons or for their own protection.
Read full definitionWhat is Approved Contact List?
An approved contact list is the list of people an inmate is authorized to communicate with through phone calls, messages, or visits.
Read full definitionWhat is Lockdown?
A lockdown is a security measure at a correctional facility where all inmates are confined to their cells and normal activities including phone calls, visits, and programming are suspended.
Read full definitionReady to Get Started?
Now that you understand Phone Privilege, explore the provider directory, compare your options, or browse all facilities to find the right fit for your situation.