Penmate Inmate Support Guides
gdc-family-day-what-to-expect

What to Expect at GDC Family Day (If Your Loved One Is at Arrendale)

GDC Family Day at Arrendale works differently than a regular visit. If you're registered and on your loved one's approved visitation list, here's how the day typically goes—so you can show up prepared and focus on what matters.

• 2 min read • gdc.georgia.gov
What to Expect at GDC Family Day (If Your Loved One Is at Arrendale)

You have to register in advance to attend GDC Family Day - and you must already be on your loved one's approved visitation list. Registration opens and closes on specific dates, and there's a hard capacity limit. Once slots fill up, registration can close before the deadline. If your loved one is at Arrendale, confirm your registration before making travel plans. You won't be able to attend without it.

What to Expect at GDC Family Day (If Your Loved One Is at Arrendale)

Checkin Bring

  • ✓ Check in at Building A
  • ✓ Bring a photo ID
  • ✓ Have the offender’s GDC number ready (you’ll be asked for it at check-in)

After check-in, GDC uses a color-coded number system to keep things organized. You'll get a number that matches the individual or section you want to speak with, then wait in the auditorium until your number is called. You won't go alone when it's your turn. Staff call numbers and escort groups - usually 15–20 people at a time - to the appropriate area. Worried about missing your turn? Just stay in the auditorium, listen for your number, and be ready to move with your group when called.

Family Day is designed to help as many people as possible get answers, so expect time limits. GDC asks visitors to keep meetings with representatives to about 10 minutes. Decide ahead of time what your top questions are, and bring notes so you can get through them quickly. Hoping to speak with the Commissioner? Plan for an even tighter window. Those meetings are first-come, first-served, and the Commissioner sees a total of 18 people - each for no more than 10 minutes. Arrive ready and stay focused to make the most of your time.

Find an Inmate at Arrendale State Prison

Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.

Exact spelling helps find results faster

Free to search · Used by families nationwide
Woman using phone to connect with loved one

More from Arrendale State Prison

arrendale-diagnostics-10-day-guide

Arrendale: What Happens During the First 10 Days of Diagnostics (Day‑by‑Day)

The first days after someone goes to prison feel like a blur - especially when you're waiting to hear from them and have no idea what's happening on the inside. Here's the day-by-day diagnostic timeline at Lee Arrendale State Prison so you can follow what your loved one is likely experiencing during those first 10 business days.

visiting-during-diagnostics-arrendale

Can You Visit Someone During Diagnostics at Arrendale? What Families Need to Know

At Lee Arrendale, don't count on visitation during the diagnostic period. Most diagnostic offenders transfer to another facility before they ever become eligible for regular visits. This is where families often hit a frustrating wall: your loved one may be physically at Arrendale for processing and classification, but visits won't open up until she reaches her permanent facility. There's one narrow exception - visitation for diagnostic offenders is only allowed under extenuating circumstances.

send-mail-to-arrendale

How to Send Mail to Someone at Lee Arrendale State Prison (Correct Mailing Address)

Sending mail to someone at Lee Arrendale State Prison? Getting the address right is the most important step. Here's the official mailing address, plus what you should know if your loved one is still in diagnostics or orientation.