How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Jail North.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Jail North is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Jail North.

Frequently asked questions about Jail North

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Jail North.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Jail North?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Jail North?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Jail North. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Jail North. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Jail North?

   Mailing address:

   Jail North
   5235 Spector Dr
   Charlotte, NC 28269
   Phone: (704) 336-8100

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Jail North?

   Visiting hours at Jail North vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (704) 336-8100 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Jail North?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Jail North for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Jail North?

   You can send money to an inmate at Jail North through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Jail North?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Jail North, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Jail North?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Jail North for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Jail North, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

Through comprehensive programming designed to address the diverse needs of incarcerated individuals, meaningful support emerges as participants work toward personal growth and successful community reintegration. The facility's approach recognizes that effective rehabilitation requires addressing multiple aspects of an individual's circumstances, from educational gaps to substance abuse challenges. This holistic philosophy guides program development, ensuring that the population receives coordinated services that build upon each other to create lasting positive change.

Educational opportunities form a cornerstone of support services, with education services typically providing foundational learning in basic literacy and numeracy skills. GED preparation programs may supply structured pathways for participants to earn their high school equivalency, often including individualized tutoring and test preparation resources. In addition to this academic foundation, vocational training programs frequently offer skill development in trades that align with local employment opportunities, helping participants develop marketable abilities that can support their transition back into the community.

Therapeutic interventions and ongoing support services address the underlying issues that often contribute to incarceration. Substance abuse programs typically incorporate evidence-based treatment approaches, providing both group and individual counseling sessions that help participants develop coping strategies and maintain sobriety. Mentoring programs may connect the population with community volunteers or peer mentors who offer guidance and encouragement throughout the incarceration period and beyond. Transitional planning services often include case management support that helps coordinate housing, employment assistance, and family reunification efforts, creating a comprehensive support network that extends well beyond release.

Daily Life & Visitation

Organizational systems form the backbone of daily operations, with structured schedules and clear protocols guiding every aspect of life within the facility. Today's routine typically begins with early morning counts and meal service, followed by consistently scheduled activities that supply predictability for the population. Housing assignments generally determine movement patterns throughout the day, as residents navigate between dormitory-style units, common areas, and designated program spaces.

Living accommodations usually consist of shared dormitory settings or smaller housing pods, where the population maintains personal spaces within the broader facility structure. Meals are typically served in centralized dining areas at scheduled times, with the commissary system allowing residents to supplement their nutrition with approved items. Personal property policies generally permit basic necessities and limited personal items, while security procedures ensure orderly movement between housing units and activity areas.

In addition to this basic framework, recreational opportunities may include access to outdoor yards, indoor common areas, and television viewing during designated hours. Work assignments often supply structure to daily routines, with kitchen duties, facility maintenance, and cleaning responsibilities available to eligible residents. Despite this structured environment, family connections remain vital through scheduled visitation periods and telephone access, typically allowing the population to maintain important relationships with loved ones outside the facility.