How to Schedule Your First Visit at Muskegon County Jail (and Avoid Losing It)
Two rules trip people up most at Muskegon County Jail: visits are appointment-only (book at least 24 hours ahead), and if you show up late, you lose the visit. Know these upfront and your first visit gets a lot easier.
You can't walk in and ask to visit at Muskegon County Jail. Every visit requires an appointment scheduled at least 24 hours ahead. Trying to visit on short notice? Plan for the next available day rather than risking a wasted trip.
Bringing a child or teen? Anyone under 18 must be scheduled alongside an adult who's at least 18. Minors can't be booked on their own - make sure the appointment includes an adult visitor from the start.
- ✓ Maximum per visit: 2 adult visitors
- ✓ Maximum per visit: 2 children under 12
- ✓ Children age 12 and over are scheduled as an adult visitor
Check-in feels like airport security. Muskegon County Sheriff Office staff will search all visitors, and you'll need valid government-issued photo ID. For visitors under 18, a current school-year photo ID works.
On-site visits run Monday through Friday in two windows: 8:30–10:55 a.m. and 1:00–3:55 p.m. Federal holidays are off-limits, so don't assume you can book a visit just because a holiday falls on a weekday.
Each on-site visit lasts 25 minutes. Pick a slot you can comfortably arrive early for - you won't get to make up time if check-in takes longer than expected.
The 24-hour rule is firm. Want to visit tomorrow morning? You need to book by this morning. Waiting until the last minute is the fastest way to miss out.
Schedule video visits - on-site or from home - through the Muskegon County scheduling page. GTL handles video visitation, and their helpdesk (855-208-7349) can sort out technical problems while you're setting things up.
Give yourself a buffer. The jail asks visitors to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time for check-in. That extra cushion matters - especially on your first visit when you're still figuring out the process.
No late entry: If you arrive after your scheduled visitation time, you will not be admitted - and the visit is forfeited.
Once inside, your behavior affects more than just that day. Improper conduct can get your visit terminated on the spot - and future visits suspended. If you're unsure about a rule, follow staff directions rather than argue. Losing this visit isn't worth losing future ones.
Quick-planning-tips
- ✓ Schedule your visit at least 24 hours ahead (walk-ins aren’t allowed)
- ✓ Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in
- ✓ Do not arrive late - late arrivals aren’t admitted and the visit is forfeited
- ✓ If anyone visiting is under 18, make sure the appointment includes an adult (18+)
Pack light. Cell phones, electronic devices, cameras, purses, backpacks, bags, and strollers aren't allowed in the visitation area. Neither is food, candy, or drinks.
Having trouble scheduling a video visit? Call GTL's helpdesk at 855-208-7349 instead of guessing. A quick call can fix account or scheduling issues before they cost you the time slot.
Find an Inmate at Muskegon County Jail
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
