Contact Visits and Monitoring at Michael Unit: What Physical Contact Is Allowed and When Visits Are Recorded

A contact visit means in-person time where physical contact is allowed - but it isn't automatically available to everyone. Before making the trip to the Michael Unit, confirm the person you're visiting is assigned there and currently has visitation privileges. Call the unit for final confirmation so you don't show up after a schedule change or cancellation.

Weighing an in-person visit against a remote option? Video visits via TDCJ agency tablets are scheduled online through TDCJ's visitation portal. That scheduling step is required, so plan ahead if you're trying to lock in a specific day or time.

The rule on hugs and kisses is specific: one embrace and one kiss at the beginning of your visit, and one embrace and one kiss at the end. That's it. Make them count, and don't reach for another hug once you're seated. Stick to the "once at the start, once at the finish" rhythm, and you're much less likely to be corrected or have your visit cut short.

Plan on the visit being watched or recorded. At the Michael Unit, all inmate visits may be electronically monitored except attorney-client visits. Keep your conversation and behavior appropriate for staff to hear and see - even during a contact visit.

Dos and Donts and I218

• ✓ Keep embraces and kisses to one at the start and one at the end of the contact visit.
• ✓ If you hold hands, keep both hands on top of the table where staff can clearly see them.
• ✓ Follow staff directions right away if you’re corrected about contact or positioning.
• ✓ Speak and act as if the visit is being electronically monitored (all visits except attorney-client may be monitored).

Want the official rules in writing? Look for the I-218 Inmate Rules and Regulations for Visitation booklet. Copies are displayed in locations inmates can access and in visitor areas, so you can double-check a rule before you walk in or while you're waiting.