What to Expect at Visitor Check-In for Dade C.I.: Step-by-Step
First-time visits can feel stressful, but check-in gets a lot easier when you know what to expect. Here's a step-by-step look at visitor check-in at Dade C.I., based on Florida DJJ visitation rules—plus what you should verify locally before leaving home.
These steps follow Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) visitation policy - the baseline for check-in and secure-area entry. That said, day-to-day details like visitation hours, appointment requirements, and accepted IDs can vary on site. Confirm those specifics with the facility or the youth's assigned Juvenile Probation Officer (JPO) before you go.
When you arrive, you'll sign in on the youth's Visitor's Log - and sign out when you leave. Take your time here. Staff use this log to track who entered, who left, and when, all tied to the specific youth you're visiting.
Questions about the youth's case or charges? Direct those to their assigned JPO. For practical questions - where to wait, what happens next, how the visit will work that day - ask the on-duty JJDO Supervisor.
You'll need to show proper photo identification at check-in. No ID, no entry - staff will turn you away. Have it ready before you reach the front of the line.
- ✓ Bring a proper photo ID and keep it somewhere easy to reach during check-in.
- ✓ If you have more than one acceptable photo ID, consider bringing a backup in case there’s an issue.
- ✓ If you’re unsure what counts as “proper photo identification” at this facility, confirm ahead of time so you don’t lose the visit.
Everyone goes through an electronic search before entering the secure area. This keeps the facility safe and prevents prohibited items from getting inside.
- ✓ Keys
- ✓ Purses
- ✓ Packages
- ✓ Other personal items you don’t truly need for the visit
Warning: Bringing in unauthorized items is serious - introducing any unauthorized items into a detention facility is a third-degree felony. If staff believe you’re attempting to introduce contraband to the secure area, you will be denied entrance.
Visits happen in designated rooms set up for safety and security. Staff search these spaces - and other common areas - before and after visits to check for hazardous items or contraband.
Entry decisions aren't just about what you're carrying - behavior and presentation matter too. Being disruptive, uncooperative, or appearing under the influence can get you turned away. The same applies to clothing the facility considers inappropriate under its operating procedures and posted dress guidance.
When check-in goes wrong, it's usually for a handful of reasons. You can be denied entry for refusing a search, not following officer instructions, or failing to show proper photo ID. Disruptive or uncooperative behavior, appearing under the influence, attempting to bring in contraband, or wearing inappropriate attire will also get you turned away.
- Separate “case” questions from “process” questions - If it’s about the youth’s case or charges, contact the youth’s assigned JPO.
- Ask for the right on-site point of contact - For other questions at the facility (like check-in process issues), ask for the on-duty JJDO Supervisor.
- Confirm what you need to fix before you leave - If you’re denied entry, find out what the issue is (ID, search refusal, attire, behavior concerns) so you know what to change for the next attempt.
Before you leave home, confirm the details that can make or break your visit: current visitation hours, whether you need an appointment, which photo IDs are accepted, and the posted dress code. A quick call ahead can save you from delays - or being turned away at the door.
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