If Your Visiting Application Is Denied: Appeal Steps, Reapplying, and Sanctions

Once a visiting application is submitted, the offender is the one who gets notified of the approval or denial. They're responsible for passing that decision along to you. If you haven't heard anything yet, check in with your loved one about your visiting status.

A denial isn't the only way your visiting access can be limited. If visiting sanctions are imposed, the institution will send you a written notice explaining the infraction and the sanctions. Keep that notice. It's the document you'll need to reference if you decide to appeal.

If your visiting application is denied, you can appeal in writing, but you need to move quickly. Missouri Department of Corrections policy gives you 30 days to send an appeal letter to: Missouri Department of Corrections, Attn: Deputy Division Director of Adult Institutions, 2729 Plaza Drive, PO Box 236, Jefferson City, MO.

• ✓ Write and mail your appeal within 30 days of the denial.
• ✓ Address it to: Missouri Department of Corrections, Attn: Deputy Division Director of Adult Institutions, 2729 Plaza Drive, PO Box 236, Jefferson City, MO (verify the correct zip code before mailing).
• ✓ Clearly identify who you are and who you are trying to visit (names, and any identifying information you have).
• ✓ Say you are appealing the denial or the imposed visiting restriction, then briefly explain why you believe you should be approved or why the restriction should be changed.
• ✓ If you received a written notice (denial or sanctions), include a copy and refer to it directly.
• ✓ Sign and date your letter, keep copies of everything, and consider using a mailing method that gives you proof it was sent and delivered.

If you don't appeal, or if the decision holds, you're not blocked forever. Visitors who are denied visiting status may reapply after one year.

1. Read the written notice closely - if sanctions are imposed, the institution will send a written notice outlining the infraction and the sanctions.
2. Save your paperwork - keep the notice and make copies for your records before you send anything out.
3. Appeal in writing (if you choose) - visiting restrictions can be appealed in writing. Mail your appeal within 30 days to: Missouri Department of Corrections, Attn: Deputy Division Director of Adult Institutions, 2729 Plaza Drive, PO Box 236, Jefferson City, MO (verify whether the correct zip code is 65102 or 65109 before you mail).