How to Contact an Inmate at Facility

The Bureau of Prisons gives inmates telephone privileges so they can stay connected with family and community contacts. Those privileges come with limits, though. Third-party or alternative call arrangements aren't allowed. Expect all calls to go through approved channels, not through someone "patching" a call or using a workaround. Cost is another common question. Typically the inmate pays for calls, but in some cases the receiving party covers the cost. One thing to keep in mind: a notice is posted next to each telephone letting inmates know that calls are monitored. Unmonitored calls to attorneys are permitted in certain circumstances, but the exact process can vary. If you anticipate discussing sensitive legal matters, confirm how attorney calls work before those topics come up on a regular call.

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• ✓ Call 603-342-4000 to confirm the visiting schedule before you leave home.
• ✓ Plan for the inmate to pay for calls in most situations, but be aware that in some cases the receiving party pays.
• ✓ Do not try to set up third-party or alternative call arrangements, they are not permitted.

1. Assume phone calls are monitored: The facility posts a notice by each telephone advising inmates that calls are monitored, so save sensitive details for appropriate, confidential conversations.
2. Handle attorney calls the right way: Unmonitored calls to attorneys are permitted in certain circumstances. If you are trying to arrange legal calls, confirm the correct procedure with the facility so the call is set up properly.

Before you head out for a visit, call 603-342-4000 to confirm the schedule. Visiting times and access can change, and the facility may restrict or cancel visits for safety reasons (severe weather, facility incidents, etc.). A quick phone call can save you a wasted trip.

• ✓ Any current limitations or conditions on inmate telephone privileges.
• ✓ Confirmation that third-party or other alternative call arrangements are not allowed, and what counts as an “alternative” arrangement.
• ✓ How billing works in your specific case (since the inmate usually pays, but in some situations the receiving party pays).
• ✓ How monitoring works in practice, and how to request or arrange unmonitored attorney calls when permitted.