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 Marshall County Sheriff’s Office.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Marshall County Sheriff’s Office 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 Marshall County Sheriff’s Office.

Frequently asked questions about Marshall County Sheriff’s Office

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 Marshall County Sheriff’s Office.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Marshall County Sheriff’s Office?

   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 Marshall County Sheriff’s Office?

   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 Marshall County Sheriff’s Office. 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 Marshall County Sheriff’s Office. 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 Marshall County Sheriff’s Office?

   Mailing address:

   Marshall County Sheriff’s Office
   423 Blount Ave
   Guntersville, AL 35976
   Phone: (256) 582-2034

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Marshall County Sheriff’s Office?

   Visiting hours at Marshall County Sheriff’s Office 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 (256) 582-2034 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 Marshall County Sheriff’s Office?

   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 Marshall County Sheriff’s Office for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Marshall County Sheriff’s Office?

   You can send money to an inmate at Marshall County Sheriff’s Office 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 Marshall County Sheriff’s Office?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, 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 Marshall County Sheriff’s Office?

   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 Marshall County Sheriff’s Office 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 Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, 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

The Marshall County Sheriff's Office maintains a comprehensive approach to detention services through its county jail division, which operates as part of a full-service law enforcement agency committed to professional standards and community partnership. As part of their mission to enhance quality of life in Marshall County, the detention facility typically focuses on maintaining security while providing essential services to incarcerated individuals. The facility may offer basic educational programs to help residents work toward their GED or improve literacy skills, along with substance abuse counseling services that address underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior.

Vocational training opportunities may be available to help prepare individuals for employment upon release, potentially including programs in maintenance, food service, or other practical skills relevant to the local job market. The facility often provides religious services and pastoral care to support spiritual needs, along with basic medical and mental health services to address immediate health concerns. Library services and recreational activities may also be incorporated to support constructive use of time during incarceration.

Given the Marshall County Sheriff's Office's emphasis on training and professional development, the jail likely maintains structured daily routines that include work assignments, educational opportunities, and counseling sessions designed to promote rehabilitation. The facility may also coordinate with local organizations to provide reentry support services, helping individuals transition back into the community with access to housing assistance, job placement resources, and continued counseling support. These programs typically aim to reduce recidivism while supporting public safety goals throughout Marshall County.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Marshall County Sheriff's Office in Guntersville, Alabama, operates its detention facility as part of a comprehensive law enforcement agency that maintains around-the-clock operations. Inmates housed at the Marshall County Jail experience structured daily routines that typically begin early in the morning with scheduled counts and meal service. The facility, which falls under the Sheriff's Office divisions that include prisoner transport and communications, maintains security protocols while providing basic necessities such as meals, medical care, and recreational time. Daily activities may include work assignments, educational programs, or vocational training opportunities, though specific programming varies based on the facility's current offerings and individual inmate classifications.

Communication with family and friends often represents a crucial aspect of daily life for those detained at the facility. The jail typically provides scheduled visitation periods and phone access, allowing inmates to maintain important relationships during their incarceration. Mail correspondence is usually processed according to established security procedures, and inmates may have access to commissary services where they can purchase approved personal items and snacks. The Sheriff's Office's commitment to professional law enforcement services extends to the detention facility's operations, where staff work to balance security requirements with humane treatment standards.

The facility operates within the broader mission of the Marshall County Sheriff's Office to serve the community while maintaining public safety. Daily routines are structured around security counts, meal times, and any available programming or work assignments. Inmates may participate in cleaning duties, kitchen work, or other facility maintenance tasks as part of their daily schedule. Medical care and mental health services are typically available as needed, and the facility works to accommodate religious observances and other personal needs within the constraints of the correctional environment.