What Happens If Your Visiting Application Is Denied (Appeals and Sanctions)
A denied visiting application—or a restriction after an incident—isn't always the end of the road. Missouri DOC provides written notice, a 30-day window to appeal, and a clear timeline for when you can reapply.
If your visiting application gets denied - or you're hit with a restriction after a rule violation - the decision will come in writing. The institution sends a notice spelling out what happened and what restrictions were imposed. Appeal the decision, and Missouri DOC says it will review everything thoroughly and send the final outcome in writing. No guessing. If your notice mentions rule violations and "corrective actions," that language comes straight from the Missouri DOC Offender Rulebook. The rulebook lists prohibited behaviors and the corrective steps the facility can take. Reading your notice carefully and matching the cited behavior to the rule language helps you understand exactly what the institution believes occurred - and why they chose that response.
Tip: If your notice cites prohibited behavior or “corrective actions,” the Missouri DOC Offender Rulebook explains those terms and the types of actions that may be taken.
Missouri DOC gives you 30 days to appeal a visiting application denial. Send your appeal letter in writing to: Attn: Deputy Division Director of Adult Institutions, 2729 Plaza Drive, PO Box 236, Jefferson City, MO 65102. Miss the deadline and you lose the option - so start drafting as soon as you get the denial.
Here's a wrinkle: Missouri DOC materials don't always show the same ZIP code for that PO Box. One page lists 65102; another lists 65109. Before you mail your appeal, double-check the correct ZIP so your letter doesn't get delayed or lost.
- ✓ Confirm the addressee: Attn: Deputy Division Director of Adult Institutions
- ✓ Confirm the street address and PO Box: 2729 Plaza Drive, PO Box 236
- ✓ Verify the ZIP code before sending (Missouri DOC sources list both 65102 and 65109)
- ✓ Keep proof of mailing and a complete copy of what you sent
- Put your identifying info at the top - Include your full name and your return mailing address so the DOC can match your appeal to the application and write you back.
- Name exactly what you’re appealing - State that you’re appealing a visiting application denial or a visiting restriction, and include the date on the notice you received.
- Explain why the decision should be reconsidered - Keep it focused on the facts. If you’re appealing a sanction notice, address the infraction described in that written notice.
- Attach supporting documents - Include copies of any documents that back up what you’re saying (for example, identification documents, photographs, or correspondence tied to the issue).
- Ask for a written response and keep your records - Request the final decision in writing and keep a copy of your full appeal packet for your own files.
Note: Because Missouri DOC requires visitors to be pre-approved and runs a criminal history check, include any documents that directly address criminal-history concerns if that’s part of the denial.
Denied? Missouri DOC says you can reapply for visiting status after one year. If you're not sure when that clock starts for your situation, ask the facility case manager before submitting a new application.
Once you appeal, DOC reviews everything and sends the final decision in writing. Keep your denial notice, your appeal letter, and proof you mailed it. Then watch your mailbox - that written response tells you what comes next.
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