Physical Contact Rules During Visits at Louisiana State Penitentiary: What's Allowed and What's Excessive

Louisiana DOC has a specific definition for

These rules apply mainly to

So what's actually allowed? A brief embrace and kiss when you first meet, the same quick goodbye when you leave, and handholding during the visit. That's the baseline. Anything prolonged or repeated beyond those moments - especially frequent physical contact throughout the visit or embraces that last more than a quick hello or farewell - crosses into

Noncontact visits work differently. Louisiana DOC defines these as visits in an area that restricts physical contact - typically with a physical barrier like glass or screens separating you. The barrier eliminates any question about how much touching is

You can still have a real conversation during noncontact visits. Communication happens through phones or speakers, so you can hear each other clearly even without physical contact.

Video visitation falls under Louisiana DOC's noncontact options. DOC classifies it as a

If Visit Terminated

• ✓ Keep greetings and goodbyes to a brief embrace and kiss, not lingering contact
• ✓ If you hold hands, keep it simple - avoid frequent physical contact throughout the visit
• ✓ Don’t escalate if staff correct you; pause the contact immediately and follow directions
• ✓ If you’re confused about what was considered “excessive,” ask staff for clarification calmly