Can You Visit an Inmate at Pitchess if You're on Probation or a Felon? Eligibility and How to Apply

If you're on probation, parole, recently discharged, or have a felony history, visiting someone at Pitchess requires Legal Unit approval first. You'll need to fill out the LASD visiting questionnaire and mail it to the Men's Central Jail Legal Unit. Until you're approved, you can't visit.

LASD applies time-based felony thresholds. You may be denied if you have one felony conviction within the last 3 years, two within the last 6 years, or three or more within the last 10 years. If your record falls into any of these categories, expect extra scrutiny - wait for the Legal Unit's decision before attempting to visit.

Discharged from an institution, parole, or outpatient status within the last 12 months? You'll need prior written approval from the Legal Unit and a copy of your discharge paperwork. Gather those documents before you apply - your application will stall if you have to track them down later.

1. Complete the visiting questionnaire - Fill it out carefully and make sure your information is consistent and readable.
2. Add any required supporting paperwork - If you were discharged from an institution or from parole/outpatient within the last 12 months, include a copy of your discharge paperwork.
3. Mail your questionnaire to the Legal Unit - Send it to: Men’s Central Jail – Legal Unit, 441 Bauchet Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
4. Call if you have questions before you mail it - The number listed for questionnaire questions is (213) 974-0103.

Your Social Security number is optional on the questionnaire under the Privacy Act of 1974. Still, fill out the form carefully. LASD warns that omissions or false information can result in denial. If you're unsure about an answer, confirm it before submitting.

After you apply, the Legal Unit will mail you their decision. Don't show up while you're waiting - LASD is clear that visiting isn't permitted until your application is approved.

Checklist

• ✓ Completed visiting questionnaire (mail it to Men’s Central Jail – Legal Unit, 441 Bauchet Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012)
• ✓ Copy of discharge paperwork (if you were discharged from an institution or from parole/outpatient within the last 12 months)
• ✓ Photo ID you’ll use for visiting, and make sure your name on the questionnaire matches it exactly
• ✓ If anything about your situation is unclear, call (213) 974-0103 before you mail your application