Understanding the 15-Number Limit at Bland Correctional Center: Who Should Be on Your Loved One’s Call List
If your loved one is at Bland Correctional Center, they'll need to build an approved call list—and it maxes out at 15 phone numbers. That cap feels tight, so choosing the right numbers from the start matters.
Phone access at Bland Correctional Center works through an approved call list, capped at 15 numbers total. This isn't just for family and friends - every number your loved one wants to dial has to fit within that limit. Think ahead about who truly needs to be reachable.
Attorney phone numbers can go on the approved list, but they still count toward the 15. Most calls on the system are monitored and recorded, though properly verified attorney calls get different treatment. If legal calls matter, make sure the attorney's correct, direct number is one of the numbers your loved one prioritizes.
Cell phones count. Bland Correctional Center allows cellular and wireless numbers on the approved list, and they're handled the same as landlines. A mobile number uses one of the 15 slots just like a home phone would. If your family has moved away from landlines, pick the best mobile numbers to include.
Note: Calls must go directly to the exact number on the approved list. Call forwarding, third-party transfers, answering-machine services, pager numbers, and pay phones are all prohibited.
Deciding whether to use one of those 15 slots for an attorney? Two things to know: attorney numbers count toward the limit, and most other calls are monitored and recorded. By using the inmate phone system, your loved one agrees to those rules and consents to monitoring. Be thoughtful about what you discuss on regular calls.
The key phrase is "properly verified." Attorney calls can be exempt from recording when the number has a previously approved recording block. If your loved one needs private legal calls, the attorney's office should confirm that the number being used can be verified and approved for that purpose.
Practical Tips
- ✓ Put your “must-reach” people first (the one or two family members who reliably answer and can relay messages)
- ✓ Reserve space for an attorney number if your loved one has active legal needs (remember it counts toward the 15)
- ✓ Choose numbers that will ring straight through to the person you intend - calls must terminate at the exact approved number (avoid anything that routes, forwards, or transfers)
- ✓ Consider one backup family contact in case the primary number is out of service
- ✓ If you’re using cell phones only, pick the most stable, long-term mobile numbers so you’re not constantly swapping entries in a tight 15-number list
Plan for short calls: Each call is limited to 20 minutes. Have a quick list of updates or questions ready before you answer.
The inmate phone system at Bland Correctional Center (VADOC) runs through ConnectNetwork by Global Tel*Link. That's the platform you'll see referenced for phone service on the outside.
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